Abstract:
A source of light in the vacuum ultraviolet (VUV) spectral region includes a reflective UV-sensitive photocathode (12) supported in spaced parallel relationship with a mesh electrode (14) within a rare gas at low pressure. A high positive potential (30) applied to the mesh electrode creates an electric field which causes drifting of free electrons occurring between the electrodes and producing continuous VUV light output by electric field-driven scintillation amplification sustained by positive photon feedback mediated by photoemission by the photocathode. In one embodiment the lamp emits a narrow-band continuum peaked at 175nm.
Abstract:
Excimers are formed in a high pressure gas by applying a potential between a first electrode (14, 214) and a counter electrode (25, 226) so as to impose an electric field within the gas, or by introducing high energy electrons into the gas using an electron beam. A phosphor for converting the wavelength of radiation emitted from the formed excimers is disposed within the gas and outside a region (62, 162) where the excimers are expected to be formed, so as to avoid degradation of the phosphor.
Abstract:
It is disclosed a membrane (10) which is substantially transparent for particle beams or electromagnetic radiation, which is made from materials whose chemical elements primarily have a small atomic number, which is able to withstand pressure differences greater than 1 mbar, and which comprises at least one layer (17) having a high emissivity of electromagnetic radiation.
Abstract:
The present invention relates to an arrangement for emitting light comprising: a hermetically sealed casing (4) including a transparent or translucent window (10); a layer (3) of a fluorescent substance arranged within said casing covering at least a major part of said window; an electron emitting cathode (1) arranged within said casing for emission of electrons; and an anode (2). Said casing is filled with a gas suitable for electron avalanche amplification. Said cathode and anode are, during use, held at electric potentials such that said emitted electrons are accelerated and avalanche amplified in said gas; and said layer is arranged to emit light through said window in response to being bombarded by avalanche amplified electrons and/or in response to being exposed to ultraviolet light as being emitted in the gas due to interactions between the avalanche amplified electrons and the gas.