3M™ Hollow Cathodes consist of a porous tungsten matrix impregnated with a barium-based, emission-enhancing material. They are high-quality, mission-critical devices constructed for use in a wide variety of applications.
Used in Mission-critical Space Applications
Built using the same quality systems that are used for space-qualified microwave cathodes, 3M™ Hollow Cathodes (PDF, 135.48 Kb) are used in mission-critical space applications including ion sources, electric propulsion, plasma contactors and spacecraft neutralization.
Precision Through Process
3M has over 60 years of industry experience manufacturing cathodes. Our highly controlled manufacturing processes are designed to ensure consistent product quality and to meet the exacting standards of a wide array of military and civilian applications. We control each stage of the cathode manufacturing process, from basic raw materials through the manufacturing of critical components to final assembly.
Hollow cathodes are used in the ion thruster systems in space vehicles
Read more about Cathodes in this brochure (PDF, 1.11 Mb)
Industries and Applications
- Commercial ion sources
- Space travel
- Electric propulsion
- Plasma contactors
- Spacecraft neutralization