Fabrication of a Carbon Nanotube Thermionic Cathode
EMSL Project ID
25618
Abstract
We propose to fabricate a thermionic cathode based on carbon nanotubes as an emitting material. Electron sources compatible with microfabrication processes are critical for the advancement of miniaturized terahertz electron devices. Currently, such devices have used Field Emission Devices (FEDs); however, devices have been limited in power due to the poor emission current densities of FED cathodes. We believe the unique qualities of carbon nanotubes including high current capabilities and high material strength will result in a cathode with superior electron emission characteristics. Such cathodes could result in microelectron devices having wide and useful applications such as high resolution imaging, terahertz spectroscopy, nondestructive characterization, as well as others.Currently, we have usage of the Center for Nanophase Materials Sciences (CNMS) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory has granted fabrication access to aid in the construction of a carbon nanotube cathode. We propose to use the facilities and personnel at EMSL for partial fabrication and testing of the resulting cathode.
Project Details
Project type
Large-Scale EMSL Research
Start Date
2007-07-01
End Date
2009-09-30
Status
Closed
Released Data Link
Team
Principal Investigator
Team Members
Related Publications
8th International Conference on Nanotechnology, August 18-21, 2008, Arlington, TX