Optimization of a nanoscale field emission cell with a planar blade-shaped multilayer graphene/SiC emitter

The paper reports an investigation of planar field emission cathodes with a nanoscale interelectrode gap in high electric fields. The multilayer graphene film is used as a rectangular blade-shaped cathode. The authors carry out simulations of the distribution of the electric field strength along the emitting surface. Six types of distribution of the field enhancement factor are revealed by the simulations. The localized enhancement of the electric field strength at the blade corners is observed. The influence of the anode parameters on the emission homogeneity along the emitting surface of the cathode in strong electric fields is determined. The analysis of the simulation results suggests that an increase in the rounding-off radius of the emitter corner does not contribute to the complete elimination of the field enhancement factor heterogeneity. Additional anode modification makes it possible to obtain a homogeneous field enhancement factor along the emitting surface of the cathode and to improve the stability of the emission.The paper reports an investigation of planar field emission cathodes with a nanoscale interelectrode gap in high electric fields. The multilayer graphene film is used as a rectangular blade-shaped cathode. The authors carry out simulations of the distribution of the electric field strength along the emitting surface. Six types of distribution of the field enhancement factor are revealed by the simulations. The localized enhancement of the electric field strength at the blade corners is observed. The influence of the anode parameters on the emission homogeneity along the emitting surface of the cathode in strong electric fields is determined. The analysis of the simulation results suggests that an increase in the rounding-off radius of the emitter corner does not contribute to the complete elimination of the field enhancement factor heterogeneity. Additional anode modification makes it possible to obtain a homogeneous field enhancement factor along the emitting surface of the cathode and to improve the sta...