Electron flow enhancement with a diamond membrane

Secondary electron emission from 2.5-to 5.0-μm thick diamond films (membranes) is considered. The process is studied in the reflection regime, where secondary electrons leave the front surface of the membrane exposed to primary electrons, and in the transmission regime, where primary electrons cause secondary emission from the opposite surface. The secondary emission coefficient is determined based on the behavior of 0.1-to 30-keV electrons in the solid. In the reflection regime, the secondary emission coefficient may be higher than 100 for electron energies of about 3 keV; in the transmission regime, it is no more than 5 even for 30-keV electrons. The emissivity of the membranes in the transmission regime can be improved, specifically, by using porous membranes, which allow one to obtain characteristics similar to those in the reflection regime. Experimental data obtained agree with calculations. The production of diamond films, including porous membranes, is described.