Quality of microchannel plate working surfaces

Citation

Kulov, S. K., Kesaev, S. A., Bugulova, I. R., Pergamentsev, Ju. L., Boyadjidy, V. Ju., Berishvili, N. V., Ahpolov, K. Ju., & Manukov, S. G. (2005). Quality of microchannel plate working surfaces. In A. M. Filachov, V. P. Ponomarenko, & A. I. Dirochka (Eds.), Proceedings of SPIE: Vol. 5834. 18th International Conference on Photoelectronics and Night Vision Devices (pp. 203-206). SPIE. https://doi.org/10.1117/12.628886

 

Brief

This article discusses the influence of microchannel plate working surface quality on parameters such as technological level, quality, and reliability of plates.

Summary

This article focuses on the relationship between the working surface quality of a microchannel plate (MCP) and its performance and longevity.12 The authors, S. K. Kulov, S. A. Kesaev, I. R. Bugulova, Ju. L. Pergamentsev, V. Ju. Boyadjidy, N. V. Berishvili, K. Ju. Ahpolov, and S. G. Manukov, highlight that the surface quality of MCPs significantly affects characteristics like:

  • Image quality
  • Gain stability
  • Noise
  • Outgassing
  • Thermal stability

A key issue discussed is the negative impact of alkaline components present in the glass used for MCP production. The article explains how these alkaline elements can lead to surface contamination and hinder long-term performance.

The authors present a new approach to address these challenges by modifying the MCP manufacturing process. This involves:

  • Using specific types of glass (C87-2 and C78-5) that facilitate the removal of alkaline components.
  • Implementing a "hybrid technique" during hydrogen reduction to create a cleaner channel surface.
  • Employing high-temperature nitrogen treatment to further enhance degassing and stability.

The article concludes by outlining ongoing research aimed at refining the MCP manufacturing process for improved working surface quality. This includes exploring methods for:

  • Channel surface polishing
  • Applying contact electrodes
  • Deep degassing
  • Final channel purification

Origin: https://psec.uchicago.edu/library/microchannel_plates/203.pdf

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