Electron emission from Spindt-like carbon nanotubes field emission cathodes (FECs)

We present field emission characteristics from Spindt-like carbon nanotubes (CNT) films obtained in a two steps method. The two steps method was elaborated in Tele & Radio Research Institute (Poland) and it consists of two independent processes: first, the physical vapour deposition (PVD) process in which a nanocomposite film built of Ni nanocrystals and carbonaceous matrix is prepared; second, the chemical vapour deposition (CVD) process in which the nanocomposite film is modified in high temperature (650 degrees C) and in atmosphere of hydrocarbons. A field emission property of CNT films is measured using a diode type system. Emission current versus applied field (I-V) is characterized by varying potential from 0 to 4 kV. The results show that emission current and threshold voltage are depended on CNT films morphology and topography the factors about which technological parameters decide.