Carbon nanotube-based cold cathodes for a new generation of X-ray systems

We present here a new device capable of generating X-rays based on a novel concept of electron source: carbon nanotube-based cold cathodes. In particular, we developed lithographic-based synthesis protocols for obtaining aligned and vertically oriented carbon nanotubes (CNTs) grown by CVD. We report some results obtained in our lab on the characterizations of field emission properties of CNT-based cold cathodes in order to demonstrate that these emitters have the capability to produce self-focused electron beams. Finally we report the results carried out by developing a reliable proof-of-concept of X-ray tube with CNT cold cathodes in the framework of the FP7-SME project NANORAY. © Società Italiana di Fisica.