Field emission properties of graphite nanotubes

The field emission of graphite nanotubes synthesized by CVD is investigated. Graphite nanotubes are examined using SEM and HRTEM to determine microstructure. Raman spectroscopy is also used to study graphite nanotubes structure. Electron field emission characteristic is measured with the diode method. Microstructure investigation provides evidence that topography of graphite nanotubes influence their field emission characteristic. From field emission measurement, the lowest onset field is about 1.0 V/mm and can be attributed to highly sharp tips and high density of graphite nanotubes. Based on microstructure characterization and field emission measurement, influence on field emission of graphite nanotubes synthesized from different deposition parameters is discussed. Key emission parameters are evaluated to obtain high field emission characteristic for application of field display.