Physics Of Electron Emitting MaterialS (POEEMS)
Abstract
Advances in materials science offer a wide range of options for exploring new physical properties, particularly in extreme regimes. Among these, extreme electric field regime is a prime research area. Beyond a critical electric field, any solid emits electrons through the tunnel effect, a wave-mechanics phenomenon. At the application level, the production of electrons by a field emission (FE) can be sought or avoided. Electron cathode technology falls into the first category. Here the objective is to produce high currents. Targeted applications are particle accelerators and radiofrequency devices. At the other end of the spectrum, the same field emission phenomenon may be perceived as being detrimental to the proper functioning of devices. The subject of breakdown in high-gradient accelerator structures belong to this category. FE electrons are responsible for internal breakdown causing irreversible damages to their physical structures. So, understanding high gradient field phenomena is an important topic. The objective of the proposed research is to answer fundamental questions related to the emission of electrons by a surface under extreme electric field. We propose to study the physics of electron emitting materials under real operating conditions using a multidimensional approach (space, energy, time) based on the photoemission electron microscopy. PEEM microscopy allows the emitted electrons to be spatially imaged at the mesoscopic level. It will help uncover spatial variation in FE yield in connection to material properties. PEEM is an energy sensitive technique. It will provide electron energy distribution curves at a mesoscopic scale, a footprint of the mechanism at play. PEEM relies on pulsed laser source, it will determine the dynamics of the electron emission at the short temporal scale.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 17, 2023
- Accession Number
- AD1216272
Entities
People
- Ludovic Douillard
Organizations
- Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission