Dispenser ion emitters

The development of a dispenser type of ion emitter is described. This type of ion emitter has been used successfully for obtaining lead, aluminum, and tin ions

Role of silicon carbide/mercury interface in ignitrons

A new model of ignition in an ignitron, based on the electrical breakdown of the junction between the ignitor (semiconductor) and the mercury (metal) is proposed. A method of evaluating some of the ignition characteristics is also developed. The paper gives a critical summary of the various characteristics of the ignition process. The new model is stated and used to explain all the ignition characteristics. The experiments conducted in support of the various aspects of this model are also given

Switching in copper oxide

This paper presents the results of an investigation conducted on the switching behavior of copper oxide. The filamentary nature of the current and also the formation of a copper channel have been observed to be associated with the process of switching. The experiments and the analysis carried out by the authors show that the formation of copper channel is due only to a secondary process and is not responsible for the actual switching of the device to the low-voltage mode. The switching, as is clear from the analysis, seems to be the result of a purely electrothermal process. The effect of the dimensions of the device on the V-I characteristics is also discussed. It has further been shown that it is possible to prevent the formation of copper channel to obtain a monoshot type of switching transition