Optimizing the Field Emission Properties of ZnO Nanowire Arrays by Precisely Tuning the Population Density and Application in Large-Area Gated Field Emitter Arrays

Zinc oxide (ZnO) nanowires are prepared for application in large area gated field emitter arrays (FEAs). By oxidizing Al-coated Zn films, the population density of the ZnO nanowires was tuned precisely by varying the thickness of the Al film. The nanowire density decreased linearly as the thickness of the Al film increased. Optimal field emission properties with a turn on field of 6.21 V mu m(-1) and current fluctuations less than 1% are obtained. This can be explained by the minimized screening effect and good electrical conductivity of the back-contact layer. The mechanism responsible for the linear variation in the nanowire density is investigated in detail. Addressable FEAs using the optimal ZnO nanowire cathodes were fabricated and applied in a display device. Good gate-controlled characteristics and the display of video images are realized. The results indicate that ZnO nanowires could be applied in large area FEAs.