Dense plasma formation on the surface of a ferroelectric cathode

An enhanced electron emission mode of the ferroelectric plasma cathode operation is reported. The enhanced emission is achieved due to the generation of dense plasma (10(19)-10(20) m(-3)). This plasma is formed by a flashover which is initiated by charged particles. These particles are attracted to the ferroelectric surface by a driving electric field and are released during its decay. Generation of an electron beam with current amplitude <= 2.5 kA is demonstrated in a diode under an accelerating voltage of 150-300kV and pulse duration of 300ns. (c) 2004 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.