Field Emission from the Edges of Single-Layer Graphene

Abstract

This chapter presents experimental emission studies and analysis on well characterized, “closer to ideal,” individual single-layer graphene edges in ultra high vacuum in an attempt to approach theoretical predictions and experimental realizations. The edges of graphene were fairly quickly considered for field emission (FE) from a theoretical point of view and somewhat later experimentally, firstly because its single atomic edge provides nature’s smallest emitter radius and thus the promise of high field enhancement and low applied voltages. FE from graphene was then calculated within the local-density approximation framework which the authors claim is simpler, more widespread, can capture full atomic and electronic structures, allow explicit imposition of an external electric field, and a fuller examination of the complex and subtle supply function sources of the electron currents.