2D/3D image charge for modeling field emission

Journal Article · Tue Feb 28 23:00:00 EST 2017 · Journal of Vacuum Science and Technology B

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1116/1.4968007 · OSTI ID:1436564

Jensen, Kevin L. ^[1]; Shiffler, Donald A. ^[2]; Harris, John R. ^[2]; Rittersdorf, Ian M. ^[3]; Petillo, John J. ^[4]

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1. Naval Research Lab. (NRL), Washington, DC (United States); NRL
2. Air Force Research Lab., Albuquerque, NM (United States)
3. Naval Research Lab. (NRL), Washington, DC (United States)
4. Leidos Corp., Billerica, MA (United States)

Analytic image charge approximations exist for planar and spherical metal surfaces but approximations for more complex geometries, such as the conical and wirelike structures characteristic of field emitters, are lacking. Such models are the basis for the evaluation of Schottky lowering factors in equations for current density. The development of a multidimensional image charge approximation, useful for a general thermal-field emission equation used in space charge studies, is given and based on an analytical model using a prolate spheroidal geometry. A description of how the model may be adapted to be used with a line charge model appropriate for carbon nanotube and carbon fiber field emitters is discussed. [http://dx.doi.org/10.1116/1.4968007]

• Research Organization: Gnosys Systems, Inc., Providence, RI (United States)
• Sponsoring Organization: USDOE Office of Science (SC), Basic Energy Sciences (BES) (SC-22)
• Grant/Contract Number: SC0013246
• OSTI ID: 1436564
• Journal Information: Journal of Vacuum Science and Technology B, Journal Name: Journal of Vacuum Science and Technology B Journal Issue: 2 Vol. 35; ISSN 2166-2746
• Publisher: American Vacuum Society/AIPCopyright Statement
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English