The embodiments described herein are directed to a method for the fabrication of transistors with aluminum-free n-type work function layers as opposed to aluminum-based n-type work function layers. The method includes forming a channel portion disposed between spaced apart source/drain epitaxial layers and forming a gate stack on the channel portion, where forming the gate stack includes depositing a high-k dielectric layer on the channel portion and depositing a p-type work function layer on the dielectric layer. After depositing the p-type work function layer, forming without a vacuum break, an aluminum-free n-type work function layer on the p-type work function layer and depositing a metal on the aluminum-free n-type work function layer. The method further includes depositing an insulating layer to surround the spaced apart source/drain epitaxial layers and the gate stack.