Influence of surface geometry on metal properties
US7220984B2 · kind B2 · utility
2Cited by
1References
24Claims
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Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 10, 2006 |
| Grant date | May 22, 2007 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 10, 2026 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T428/12993
- WIPO fieldSurface technology, coating
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
The influence of surface geometry on metal properties is studied within the limit of the quantum theory of free electrons. It is shown that a metal surface can be modified with patterned indents to increase the Fermi energy level inside the metal, leading to decrease in electron work function. This effect would exist in any quantum system comprising fermions inside a potential energy box. Also disclosed is a method for making nanostructured surfaces having perpendicular features with sharp edges.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.