Characterization of field emission cathodes based on different diamond materials

One of main goals of studies in the electron emission from diamond is the fabrication of a practical field emission cathode. During last several years, emission properties of many diamond and carbon materials have been reported, lacking however in specific emission characteristics, required for device engineers. In this paper we present results about the testing of field emission cathodes with coating of different materials concerning their "practical" characteristics: emission threshold, maximum current, current stability, reproducibility of I-V characteristics.