Fabrication of High Current Emitting Cold Cathodes Based on Carbon Nanofiber Films Synthesized Using Electroplated Nickel Catalyst

Cold cathodes which can emit high currents were fabricated using carbon nanofiber (CNF) films synthesized via hot-filament chemical vapor deposition (HFCVD) method. The synthesis of CNF films with good electron-emitting characteristics relied on the judicial choice of metal catalysts. As it turned out electroplated nickel catalysts on gold buffer layers was suitable for the synthesis of CNFs with many protrusions which contributed to the good electron emission. Thickness and uniformity of nickel layers decided emission properties of CNF films. The substrate temperatures during the HFCVD process also were key factors determining the emission characteristics of CNF films. We took advantage of the simplicity and large-area compatibility of electroplating to fabricate large area patterned cathodes which can generate emission currents of sufficient magnitude for various applications.