A method to fabricate field emission tip arrays by electrocodeposition of single-wall carbon nanotubes and nickel

A new method to fabricate carbon nanotube field emission structure is developed. The emitter structure is a composite of single-wall carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) and Ni, and this is done by codepositing SWNTs and Ni metal via electrolysis. The carbon nanotubes distributed in the Ni matrix show a strong contact with the substrate. To enable good dispersion of the SWNTs in the conventional Ni Watt bath solution which is required for uniform codeposition, several techniques are successfully employed, i.e., oxidation and heat-treatment of the carbon nanotubes, surfactant coating, ultrasonic agitation, etc. A post chemical etching process is also necessary to enhance the emission properties. The emission is uniform, and the current density reached 1.2 mA/cm(2) at 4 V/mu m. (c) 2006 The Electrochemical Society.