Investigation of Solid State Cold Cathodes.
Abstract
The principles of operation of the negative electron affinity cold cathode are discussed, and it is shown that a practical device is possible. Samples that have been made with novel structures to overcome the problems associated with current crowding are described. A negative electron affinity surface has been achieved on epitaxially-grown silicon, making the silicon cold cathode considerably closer to realization. High photosensitivities have been measured on liquid-grown and vapor-grown GaAs devices, and small cold cathode emission currents have been measured. Two experimental vacuum systems have been constructed for activating GaAs and silicon cold cathodes. The problem of current crowding in circular structures has been solved, and curves are presented illustrating the resulting current profiles. It is found that, for cold cathodes of the type being studied, reasonable profiles may be expected for practical operating levels. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 29, 1970
- Accession Number
- AD0872918
Entities
People
- Elliot S. Kohn