Basic phenomena of the thermionic diode operating in the ignited mode

The mode of operation of the cesium vapor, thermionic diode which is most important for energy conversion is presently the ignited mode. Theoretical understanding of the ignited mode diode has recently experienced considerable development. This theoretical development and its experimental basis will be reviewed briefly and a coherent interpretation presented for observed ignited mode, thermionic converter phenomena. The basis was laid for the present theoretical progress by the following important experimental developments: Emitter heat balance studies have given valuable information concerning plasma phenomena in the region of the emitter. Probe measurements have shown the type of potential distributions to be expected in the ignited mode. Spectroscopic studies have resulted in measurements of plasma density and electron temperature distributions. Finally, sophisticated diodes have provided volt ampere characteristics which are relatively free of extraneous effects.