M-type cathode

• Javad Alizadehnoory (School of Particles and Accelerators, IPM)

To address the challenges associated with oxide cathodes, dispenser cathodes were introduced as a solution starting in the 1950s. Notably, in 1966, a groundbreaking dispenser cathode known as the M-type cathode was introduced, marking a significant advancement by tripling the current density. Today, the M-type cathode has established itself as one of the most commonly employed thermionic cathodes, capable of consistently delivering a current density of 12 amps/cm² over an impressive ten thousand hours of operation.The manufacturing process of the M-type cathode holds the potential for significant insights into the fundamental nature of dispenser cathodes, making it a focal point of research and development in this field. This presentation aims to provide a concise overview of the M-type cathode, covering its key properties, historical significance, and critical considerations.