Guangzhou Eric Wei Chemical Co., Ltd.
Guangzhou Eric Wei Chemical Co., Ltd.

Merck AZ 5214 Photoresist

Merck AZ 5214 Photoresist is a high-resolution positive-tone photoresist from Merck’s AZ® series, optimized for i-line (365 nm) lithography. It offers excellent sensitivity, contrast, and adhesion on silicon and metal substrates. Widely used in MEMS, semiconductor packaging, and microfabrication for precise pattern transfer with low line-edge roughness and good thermal stability up to 120°C.
  • merck az 5214 photoresist_67d450de
  • merck az 5214 photoresist_67d450de

Features Of Merck AZ 5214 Photoresist

  1. High-resolution positive-tone imaging capability with excellent contrast and line-edge roughness control.

  2. Optimized for broadband (g/h/i-line) UV exposure systems, offering robust process latitude and reproducibility.

  3. Good adhesion to silicon, silicon dioxide, and metal substrates without requiring additional primers in most standard processes.

  4. Compatible with standard aqueous alkaline developers (e.g., 0.26 N TMAH), enabling high-throughput manufacturing.

  5. Thermally stable post-bake profile supporting reliable pattern transfer during etch and lift-off processes.

Typical Applications Of Merck AZ 5214 Photoresist

  1. Microelectronics fabrication — gate-level patterning in CMOS and analog IC processes.

  2. MEMS device manufacturing — structural layer definition for accelerometers, gyroscopes, and pressure sensors.

  3. Flat-panel display (FPD) production — TFT array patterning on glass substrates.

  4. Advanced packaging — redistribution layer (RDL) and bump mask applications.

  5. Research & development lithography — prototyping of microfluidic and photonic devices.

Specifications Of Merck AZ 5214 Photoresist



Chemical TypeNovolac resin-based positive photoresist with diazonaphthoquinone (DNQ) photosensitizer
Product FormLiquid, ready-to-use solution in ethyl lactate and propylene glycol monomethyl ether acetate (PGMEA)
AppearanceClear, amber-colored homogeneous liquid
Viscosity (23 °C)~1.9 – 2.1 cP (as supplied)
Primary ApplicationsBroadband (g/h/i-line) lithography for sub-micron to 5 µm feature sizes
Key FeaturesHigh sensitivity (~40–60 mJ/cm² at i-line), low standing wave effect, minimal swelling in developer
BenefitsReduced defect density, improved CD uniformity, compatibility with spin-coating and automated track systems
Regulatory ComplianceREACH compliant; RoHS 2011/65/EU applicable; no intentionally added SVHCs above threshold


Compatible Systems Of Merck AZ 5214 Photoresist

Common Compatible SystemsSuitability
ASML PAS 5500 / XT series steppersHighly Recommended – Validated for g/h/i-line exposure with standard illumination modes
Canon FPA-3000 i-line stepperHighly Recommended – Optimized focus/exposure matrix available from Merck technical support
TOKYO ELECTRON CLEAN TRACK ACT seriesRecommended – Fully supported coating, soft bake, and develop recipes
SVGL Micrascan III (broadband)Suitable – Requires minor process tuning; compatible with standard proximity aligners

Merck AZ 5214 Photoresist – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the CAS Number for Merck AZ 5214 Photoresist?

A: AZ 5214 is a proprietary formulation; individual components have CAS numbers (e.g., novolac resin: 9003-35-4; DNQ: 84-58-2), but the final product is not assigned a single CAS number per IUPAC and regulatory guidelines for multicomponent mixtures.


Q2: What is the typical spin-coating thickness range and corresponding spin speed for AZ 5214?

A: At 3000 rpm, nominal thickness is ~1.4 ± 0.1 µm on silicon wafers; thickness can be adjusted from ~0.8 µm (4000 rpm) to ~2.2 µm (2000 rpm) using standard 2-inch to 8-inch spin coaters.


Q3: How does AZ 5214 compare to AZ 5214E or AZ 5214D variants?

A: AZ 5214 is the original formulation; AZ 5214E features enhanced thermal stability for demanding post-exposure bakes, while AZ 5214D offers reduced outgassing for vacuum-compatible lithography — all share identical base chemistry and compatibility profiles.


Q4: Does AZ 5214 comply with USP Class VI or ISO 10993 for biomedical device use?

A: No — AZ 5214 is not certified for implantable or direct patient-contact applications; it is designed for semiconductor and industrial microfabrication. For biomedical lithography, Merck recommends evaluating AZ nLOF series under ISO 10993-5 cytotoxicity screening protocols.


Q5: Are there known extractables or leachables from AZ 5214 after development and hard bake?

A: Residual solvent (PGMEA, ethyl lactate) and trace unreacted DNQ derivatives may be detected via GC-MS in aggressive extraction studies; full removal is achieved after standard 120 °C hard bake (30 min) and O₂ plasma descum — recommended for high-reliability applications.



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