Field emission from diamond and related films

Field electron emission from diamond and related films has been a popular topic of both experimental and theoretical research since the beginning of 1990s. Because of their low surface electron affinity, chemical inertness and high thermal conductivity, this type of films is considered a strong candidate for cold-cathode materials. The field-emission properties of various types of diamond film are reviewed, and the milestone developments are identified. Current theoretical models are compared. Potential applications of the diamond based cold-cathode emitters are predicted.