Enhanced electron field emission of carbon nanotubes by Si ion beam irradiation

Abstract

The electron field emission of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) has been enhanced by Si ion beam irradiation. The defects generated by ion beam irradiation and the absorbed molecules on the CNTs were responsible for the enhancement of electron field emission. This investigation provides a possible way to improve the electron field emission properties of CNTs and understand the mechanism of electron field emission enhancement of CNTs.