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Related Experiment Videos

Fowler-Nordheim theory for a spherical emitting surface.

C J Edgcombe1

  • 1Cavendish Laboratory, University of Cambridge, Madingley Road, CB3 0HE, Cambridge, UK. cje1@cam.ac.uk

Ultramicroscopy
|January 22, 2003
PubMed
Summary

Fowler-Nordheim theory poorly predicts field emitter behavior. A new model accounting for surface curvature improves current density predictions and accurately estimates emitter dimensions.

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Area of Science:

  • Physics
  • Materials Science
  • Surface Science

Background:

  • Fowler-Nordheim (F-N) theory is a cornerstone for understanding electron field emission.
  • Standard F-N theory assumes a planar emitting surface, which often deviates from real-world field emitter geometries.
  • Discrepancies between planar F-N theory and experimental observations highlight the need for refined models.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To develop an improved Fowler-Nordheim model that incorporates the effects of emitter surface curvature.
  • To enhance the accuracy of predicting field emission current density for non-planar emitters.
  • To provide a more reliable method for estimating field emitter dimensions from experimental data.

Main Methods:

  • Modified Fowler-Nordheim theory to include non-linear potential variation near the curved surface.
  • Accounted for changes in the exponent and pre-exponential factors within the F-N current equation due to curvature.
  • Modeled current density variation across the surface using an effective solid angle approximation.

Main Results:

  • The refined model demonstrated significantly better agreement with experimental field emission data compared to the standard planar F-N theory.
  • The inclusion of surface curvature effects led to more accurate estimations of the emitter's apex radius.
  • The developed model successfully reconciled theoretical predictions with observed current densities.

Conclusions:

  • Emitter surface curvature is a critical factor that must be considered for accurate field emission modeling.
  • The enhanced Fowler-Nordheim model provides a more robust framework for analyzing field emission from curved surfaces.
  • This work offers improved methods for characterizing field emitters and understanding their performance in various applications.

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