Sol-gel synthesis of Sc2O3 doped W nano-particle for cathode application

Abstract

Sc2O3 doped W nano-powder is believed to play a dominant role for improving emission capabilities of the high current density thermionic cathodes. In this study a novel nano-particle synthesis approach was adopted in order to precisely control the particle parameters. The particle characteristics and sintering behavior has been analyzed using SEM, TEM, EDS, XRD and XPS. Uniform grain size with average particle diameter~50 nm, spherical morphology, uniform phase and homogeneous mixing of Sc2O3 doped W nano-powder was obtain which will enhance the emission current density, emission uniformity and life of the cathode.