Cerium hexaboride is a dark gray powder classified as a rare earth boride, valued for its exceptional electron emissivity and thermal stability. With a relatively low work function of approximately 2.5 eV, CeB6 stands out as a premier cathode material, particularly for high-current and high-brightness applications. As a refractory ceramic, it is stable in vacuum environments and exhibits dense Kondo-like behavior.
Cerium Hexaboride
Purity: Ce/RE 99.9% 3N
Particle size: -20~500mesh
| CAS No.:12008-02-5 | Molecular Formula:CeB6 or B6Ce-2 | Molecular Weight:204.976 | EC Number:234-526-9 |
| Melting Point:2552℃ |
Unique Features
- Thermal Stability: Operates at a working temperature of approximately 1450℃.
- Enhanced Lifespan: Offers 50% longer life compared to lanthanum boride(LaB6) cathodes due to superior resistance to carbon pollution.
- Brightness&Longevity: Provides 10 times the brightness and 10-15 times the life of tungsten cathodes.
- Evaporation Resistance: Lowever evaporation rate than LaB6 below 1700K, matching or exceeding at higher temper
Applications
Cerium hexaboride finds widespread use in advanced scientific and industrial fields:
- Hot Cathodes: Used as a coating material or as standalone cathode crystals in high-current applications.
- Electron Microscopy: Provides high-brightness electron sources for detailed imaging.
- Microwave Tubes: Enhances performance and efficieency in vacuum electronics.
- Electron Beam Lithography: Facilitates high-precision patterning for semiconductor manufacturing.
- Welding and Cutting: Integral to electron beam welding systems.
- X-Ray Tubes: Improves electron emissivity for high-resolution X-ray imaging.
- Free Electron Lasers: Used in advanced laser systems requireing high electron output.
With its superior electron emissivity, resistance to carbon contamination, and exceptional brightness, cerium hexaboride is a critical material for technologies requiring precision, durability, and high performance.