Micro electron sources

Developments in electron source materials will impact on many applications, from flat-panel displays to electrical propulsion systems for space craft. The quest for miniaturisation has directed research into smaller, more efficient electron source technologies. Bill Milne, from Cambridge University, UK, says that carbon nanotubes are extraordinary materials for field emission. Not only are they ideally shaped for the job, but they are very stable emitters and have high electrical conductivity. Now Milne and his team are investigating using carbon nanotubes as micro-electron sources for e-beam lithography and high frequency microwave amplifier systems.

Helen Fletcher