Quasi-stationary states of relativistic field-emission-limited diodes

Abstract

Summary form only given. A relativistic field-emission-limited diode employing a high-transparency mesh anode is investigated via a self-consistent approach. The field emission process is described quantum-mechanically by the Fowler-Nordheim equation. The cathode plasma and surface properties are considered within the framework of the effective work function approximation. Space charge effects are described by Poisson's equation including relativistic effects. Ionization effects at the high-transparency mesh anode are ignored. The numerical calculations are carried out on a time scale much shorter than the emergence of the gap closure. The quasi-stationary state of the diode exhibits a cut-off voltage. The electric field on the cathode surface is found to be saturated in the high voltage regime and determined by the effective work function only.