Application of dual grids to cold cathode/field effect electron emission
This paper will present an analysis of dual grid field emitter technology, illustrating the substantial power savings that can be obtained from existing technologies by controlling the final velocity of emitted electrons. Additionally, using two grids instead of one allows the efficient use of a wider range of emission technologies. Higher field strength requirements do not necessitate higher power requirements as with single grid devices. Basic illustration of the concept including conservation of power analysis will be followed by examples of system integration. Application to ion thrusters, hall thrusters, electrodynamic tether propulsion, and ground experiments will be described. Copyright © 2005 by the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Inc. All rights reserved.
