The selection and design of electrode materials for field emission devices

Semiconductor field effect devices (FEDs) have become ubiquitous in everyday life due to their widespread applications. However, their stability in challenging environments such as high temperatures and high radiation remains a limitation. To address this issue, alternative devices based on field emission principles have garnered interest as they are insensitive to such operating conditions. The development of new materials and innovative structures in recent years has facilitated substantial progress in this field. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the advancements in field emission devices, with a focus on the selection of electrode materials and design considerations. By exploring the trends in this area, the article aims to provide insights into the future directions of research in this field. To that end, the article is structured to provide a comprehensive examination of the state-of-the-art in field emission devices, highlighting the key considerations and challenges involved in electrode material selection and design. The article concludes by outlining prospects and potential areas of growth, providing a roadmap for future developments in the field.