32 nd International Field Emission Symposium / 32ème Symposium International d'Emission de Champ
J. Phys. Colloques 47 (1986) C2-95-C2-100
DOI: 10.1051/jphyscol:1986214
MATERIALS CONSIDERATIONS IN LIQUID METAL ION SOURCE DEVELOPMENT
M.J. BOZACK1, L.W. SWANSON2 et A.E. BELL21 Surface Science Center, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15260, U.S.A.
2 Oregon Graduate Center, 19600 NW von Neumann Drive, Beaverton, OR 97006, U.S.A.
Abstract
Successful development of a liquid metal ion source depends upon the satisfactory confluence of several critical design considerations. At least nine desirable properties of the alloy and substrate exist which cannot be fully and simultaneously satisfied in a given contact system. A compromise must usually be made based upon the most important source characteristics. We review these properties, with emphasis on the material and thermodynamic behavior of liquid metal alloy surfaces.