In this work we investigated the electron emission properties of high-pressure discharge lamp cathode tips. The work function (Φ) of the cathode tip was measured by using the Kelvin probe method and by work function spectroscopy (WFS). The Kelvin probe method was used to measure the average work function of tips under atmospheric pressure in air. By WFS we could measure the local work function value of tips in the selected spots under ultra high vacuum conditions. The chemical composition analysis was carried out in the same chamber by Auger electron spectroscopy.The focus of this study is to investigate the influence of sintering temperature of cathodes (1500–1700 °C) and lamp operation time (0–12 000 h) on the work function. The comparison of the work function of both cathodes as a function of operation time originating from the two different ends of the ceramic tube is also considered. In order to understand the structure of the layers on the cathode tips we also give results obtained on a flat tungsten foil covered with Ba-containing emission material. The flat samples were measured using x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and WFS.

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The emission material in High Intensity Discharge (HID) lamps plays a significant role in lowering the electrode work function and thus the lamps' operating temperature. Bacontaining rare earth-and alkali earth tungstate materials are commonly used as cathode thermionic emission materials because of the production of high intensity discharge.The goal of this present work is to model a cathode tip surface evolved during sintering and to compare the physical and chemical properties of emission materials currently used in the industry. In order to achieve this goal, we investigated and compared the layer structure of Ba-Ca-and Ba-Y-containing emission materials evolved on polycrystalline tungsten foils. Simultaneously, the tendency of the work function was also monitored as a function of Ba/BaO layer thickness. The Ba coverage of cathode is one of the most important factors during the lifetime of HID lamps. The initial Ba diffusion was also examined. We also proposed a layer model, valuable for the structures occurring during the operation of lamps.The chemical composition of the flat samples was analysed by X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) and the electron emission properties by Work Function Spectroscopy (WFS).