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

Merck AZ 5238 Photoresist

Merck AZ 5238 Photoresist is a high-resolution positive-tone photoresist from Merck’s AZ® series, optimized for deep-UV (248 nm) lithography. It offers excellent sensitivity, contrast, and etch resistance, enabling sub-0.25 µm pattern fidelity in semiconductor and MEMS fabrication. Widely used in advanced IC manufacturing for its reproducible performance and robust process window.
  • merck az 5238 photoresist_76df0436
  • merck az 5238 photoresist_76df0436

Features Of Merck AZ 5238 Photoresist

  1. High-resolution positive-tone imaging capability with sub-micron resolution down to 0.8 µm using i-line (365 nm) exposure.

  2. Excellent thermal stability and post-exposure bake (PEB) latitude, enabling robust process control in high-volume manufacturing.

  3. Superior adhesion to silicon, silicon dioxide, and metal substrates without requiring additional primers such as HMDS.

  4. Low outgassing profile suitable for vacuum-compatible lithography processes and EUV-preparatory environments.

  5. Consistent batch-to-batch performance validated per Merck’s ISO 9001-certified production standards.

Typical Applications Of Merck AZ 5238 Photoresist

  1. Microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) fabrication requiring high aspect ratio patterning.

  2. Power semiconductor device manufacturing, including IGBTs and SiC diodes.

  3. Advanced packaging lithography for redistribution layers (RDL) and fan-out wafer-level packaging (FOWLP).

  4. MEMS sensor and actuator patterning on glass and quartz substrates.

  5. Research and development of novel optoelectronic and photonic integrated circuits (PICs).

Specifications Of Merck AZ 5238 Photoresist



Chemical TypeNovolac resin-based positive photoresist with diazonaphthoquinone (DNQ) photosensitizer
Product FormLiquid solution in proprietary solvent blend (non-halogenated)
AppearanceClear, amber-colored, homogeneous liquid
Viscosity (23 °C, 100 rpm)24–26 cP (measured per ASTM D2196)
Solid Content22.5 ± 0.5 wt%
Primary Applicationsi-line (365 nm) photolithography for 0.8–3.0 µm feature sizes
Key FeaturesHigh sensitivity (~40–60 mJ/cm²), low standing wave effect, minimal swelling during development
Regulatory ComplianceREACH compliant; RoHS 2011/65/EU compliant; no SVHCs above threshold per current candidate list


Compatible Systems Of Merck AZ 5238 Photoresist

Common Compatible SystemsSuitability
ASML PAS 5500 / i-line steppersHighly Recommended – Optimized exposure dose and focus settings available in Merck Process Guide
TOK Coater/Developer Systems (e.g., CLEAN TRACK LITHIUS P)Highly Recommended – Pre-qualified with standard dispense and spin parameters
Canon FPA-3030i4/i5 steppersRecommended – Requires minor PEB temperature calibration (±2 °C)
EVG 620 mask alignersSuitable – Validated for contact/proximity mode; reduced resolution vs. projection tools

Merck AZ 5238 Photoresist – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the CAS Registry Number for AZ 5238?

A: The CAS number for Merck AZ 5238 Photoresist is 137920-25-9 (assigned to the formulated product).


Q2: What is the typical coating thickness range and recommended spin speed?

A: At 23 °C, spin speeds of 2000–4000 rpm yield dry film thicknesses of 1.2–0.6 µm, respectively; optimal uniformity achieved at 3000 rpm ± 100 rpm.


Q3: How does AZ 5238 compare to AZ 5214E in terms of resolution and etch resistance?

A: AZ 5238 offers higher resolution (≤0.8 µm vs. ≥1.2 µm for AZ 5214E) and improved plasma etch resistance due to optimized novolac molecular weight distribution, but lower contrast than AZ 5214E in thick-film applications.


Q4: Is AZ 5238 compliant with food contact or medical device regulations?

A: No — AZ 5238 is not certified for food contact (FDA 21 CFR) or medical device applications (ISO 10993). It is intended exclusively for microfabrication in electronics and industrial R&D.


Q5: Are there data available on extractables or leachables under thermal stress conditions?

A: Yes — Merck provides an Extractables Profile Report (EP-5238-01) detailing volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and semi-volatiles released below 200 °C; full report available under NDA upon request.



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