Wide-aperture cathodoluminescent light source based on an open discharge

The feasibility of an effective high-luminance light source based on an open discharge is considered. Experimental data for the light characteristics of different cathodoluminescent screens are presented. Phosphor coatings are excited by an electron beam initiated by a planar cathode-grid injector in an inert gas atmosphere. The feasibility of maintaining an open discharge using continuous or pulsed-periodic excitation of the gas medium in the light emitter is discussed. The use of the specular method to excite the phosphor coating of the screen makes it possible to achieve a higher luminance and a higher luminous efficacy in comparison with these characteristics for cathodophosphors. The design of the cathode-grid unit allows for a large surface area of the electron injector, making it promising for wide-aperture light sources. (C) 2004 MAIK "Nauka/Interperiodica".