Flexible low-dimensional semiconductor field emission cathodes: fabrication, properties and applications

Abstract

Flexible field emission cathodes, as a member of the class of flexible electronic nanodevices, have potential applications in flexible displays and miniature X-ray tubes. In the present review, we first provide an overview of the research progress made in this field, focusing on the fabrication and field emission properties of flexible field emission cathodes based on low-dimensional inorganic semiconductor nanostructures, which are typically grown on flexible substrates, such as polymers, graphene and carbon fabrics. After this, we provide a brief introduction to the major features of flexible field emission cathodes. Subsequently, we shed some light on their potential applications in field emission displays and X-ray tubes. Finally, we discuss future prospects in the further development of flexible field emission cathodes.