Effectively improved field emission for graphene film by mechanical surface modification

A mechanical surface treatment is presented by using adhesive tape to modify the surface morphology of graphene cathodes and to improve their field emission properties. The treated graphene cathodes have numerous vertical sharp edges, which act as excellent field emission sites. Effectively improved field emission properties with low turn on field, low threshold field, high emission current density and high field enhancement factor are obtained due to the full utilization of the unique structure and excellent properties of graphene.

• Mechanical surface treatment was used to modify the surface morphology of graphene.
• Adhesive tape was used for mechanical surface treatment.
• Efficient field emission of graphene film was obtained due to the post-treatment.
• Low turn-on and threshold field can be obtained.
• High emission current density and field enhancement factor can be achieved.