This thesis addresses selected unsolved problems in the chemical
mechanical polishing process (CMP) for integrated circuits using
ruthenium (Ru) as a novel barrier layer material. Pursuing a systematic
approach to resolve the remaining critical issues in the CMP, it first
investigates the tribocorrosion properties and the material removal
mechanisms of copper (Cu) and Ru in KIO4-based slurry. The
thesis subsequently studies Cu/Ru galvanic corrosion from a new micro
and in-situ perspective, and on this basis, seeks ways to mitigate
corrosion using different slurry additives. The findings presented here
constitute a significant advance in fundamental and technical
investigations into the CMP, while also laying the groundwork for future
research.