Development and Research of Multifrequency X-ray Tube with a Field Nanocathode

The conceptual model of X-ray source, consisting of the field-emission cathode and transmission-type thin film target, which is combined with X-ray transparent window, has been proposed. By means of numerical simulation methods, it was shown that the proposed design makes it possible to generate X-rays under the influence of an electron beam of the field-emission cathode. It is possible to get a small focal spot on the target and, therefore, a high resolution. The experimental sample of X-ray source was made and its measurement tests were conducted. The following results of the experimental studies of the sample of X-ray source were obtained: the power supply voltage is 37 kV, the power consumption is 2.77 W, the cathode current is 74.80 mA, the sample dimensions are 65 × 22 mm, the focal spot size is 439 mm, and the cathode current is about 75.2 μA after exposure to high and low temperatures.