Field emission devices employing ultra-fine diamond particle emitters

摘要

This application discloses methods for making electron emitters using commercially available diamond particles treated to enhance their capability for electron emission under extremely low electric fields. Electron emitters comprising ultra-fine (5-10,000 nm) diamond or diamond-coated particles are activated by a hydrogen plasma treatment to produce electron emission current density of at least 0.1 mA/mm<2> at low electric fields below 8 V/ mu m. Emitters are preferably fabricated by plasma activating the ultra-fine diamond or diamond-coated particles, preferably in the nanometer size range, then applying the particles either as a suspension in a solution or as dry particles, with an optional baking process to improve particle adhesion, onto a conducting substrate such as n-type Si or metal. <IMAGE>