Intensive electron emission in a strong electric field in vacuum nanoelectronics and highpower electronics

Abstract

This paper briefly discusses the remarkable characteristics of the processes of field electron (FE) and explosive electron (EE) emission in a strong electric field. Special emphasis is placed on the recently discovered extraordinary fundamental effects occurring at carbon nanoclusters: the low-threshold FE and EE. Important possible practical applications of these phenomena are considered, including the opportunity to develop a new type of very compact Xray devices.