Ferroelectric plasma sources

We review our studies of ferroelectric plasma sources and their applications. Using various diagnostics it was shown that the source of the charged particle emission from the ferroelectric is a plasma, produced as a result of an incomplete surface discharge. The process of the plasma formation is accompanied by desorption of neutrals from the ferroelectric surface. Generation of electron beams with current amplitude of few kA and electron energy up to 300 keV are described. We also present data concerning an enhanced emission mode of the ferroelectric plasma source and its application as a source of heavy ions. Results of applications of ferroelectric plasma sources in hollow cathode discharge, as cathodes in magnetrons and in reflex triodes, as high-current switches and for generation of high-frequency modulated electron beams are presented as well.