Magazine Article

Improved Field-Emission Cathodes

TBMG-7417

09/01/2001

Abstract
Content

Microscopic cathodes based on field emission (in contradistinction to thermionic emission) are undergoing development with a view toward using them as miniature or scalable sources of electrons in diverse applications that could include spacecraft thrusters, semiconductor-fabrication equipment, flat-panel display devices, miniature x-ray sources, and electrodynamic tethers and mass spectrometers. Increasing current levels can be accomplished by increasing the number of tips in an array. The basic concepts of utilizing field-emission cathodes for such applications and of scaling up by enlarging arrays are not new; the novel aspect of the present developmental cold cathodes lies in a microfabricated cathode lens and ion repeller (CLAIR) similar to an Einzel lens which will enable the integration of field-emission cathodes with electric propulsion systems, electrodynamic tethers, and instruments while meeting performance and lifetime requirements.

Meta TagsDetails
Citation
"Improved Field-Emission Cathodes," Mobility Engineering, September 1, 2001.
Additional Details
Publisher
Published
Sep 1, 2001
Product Code
TBMG-7417
Content Type
Magazine Article
Language
English