Work function of LaB6

Abstract

By means of Richardson plots, low work functions of 2.3–2.4 eV have been measured for three cyrstal planes including (100) of single-crystal LaB6. Modifying Smith’s model of a metallic surface, the work function of LaB6 has been theoretically estimated for a jellium model at 2.31±0.05 eV which is in good agreement with experimental values.