Journal of Radio Electronics. eISSN 1684-1719. 2026. ¹4
Full text in Russian (pdf)
DOI: https://doi.org/10.30898/1684-1719.2026.4.13
OF NANOSTRUCTURED CATHODES
Thet Hmu Maung, Chit Phone Paing, E.P Sheshin
Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology (National Research University),
141701, Moscow region, Dolgoprudnyi, Institutskii pereulok, 9.
The paper was received February 15, 2026.
Abstract. This study examines the auto emission properties of nanostructured cathodes based on carbon foils, including thermally expanded graphite, pyrolytic graphite, and graphene. Owing to their unique physical and chemical characteristics–high electrical conductivity, mechanical strength, thermal stability, and low work function–carbon nanostructures demonstrate significant potential as cold electron sources for modern vacuum electronic devices. The paper discusses the structural features of various carbon materials, emphasizing how nanoscale morphology, surface roughness, and the presence of sharp edges or layered microstructures influence field emission performance. Special attention is given to fabrication techniques, including CVD-grown carbon foils, laser-induced surface structuring, and methods for forming graphene and pyrolytic graphite films. Experimental results show that nanostructured carbon foils provide stable emission at relatively low electric fields, and modifications such as creating micro and nano protrusions can substantially enhance electron emission. Modeling of electron trajectories confirms the suitability of carbon-foil-based emitters for planar and lateral configurations used in display pixels and other compact electron sources. The study highlights key challenges related to stability, reproducibility, and long-term degradation, and outlines directions for future research aimed at scalable manufacturing and improved durability of carbon-based field emitters.
Key words: carbon foils, field emission, auto emission cathodes, thermally expanded graphite, pyrolytic graphite, graphene, nanostructured carbon materials, cold cathodes, electron emission, carbon nanostructures.
Corresponding author: Chit Phone Paing, chitphonepaing6@gmail.com
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For citation:
Thet Hmu Maung, Chit Phone Paing, Sheshin E.P. Field emission properties of nanostructured cathodes based on carbon foils // Journal of Radio Electronics. – 2026. – ¹. 4. https://doi.org/10.30898/1684-1719.2026.4.13 (In Russian)