Itt Manufacturing Enterprises, Inc.

Itt Corporation

Donald H Stanley

Robert Peckman

Roger M Voss

Joseph Herman Reich, Jr

Weston K Peregoy, Jr

The present invention involves a method for simultaneously applying an activation layer on the photoemissive layers of a plurality of photocathodes such as those used in image intensifier devices. The method includes the steps of diffusing a flux of activating chemicals over the plurality of photocathodes, wherein the flux is substantially spatially uniform with respect to the plurality of photocathodes; monitoring the sum photoresponse of the plurality of photocathodes; and terminating the flux of activating chemicals when a desired sum photoresponse is attained.

Method for activating a plurality of photocathodes

A low temperature apparatus and process exists for cleaning photo-cathodes used A lo VW pV:image intensifier tubes. The process comprises the steps of applying atomic or molecular particles of a plasma to a photo-cathode for the purpose of removing contaminants, such as oxides, from the photo-cathode surface; and applying heat or ultra-violet radiation to the photo-cathode to remove remaining impurities. The apparatus comprises means for subjecting a photo-cathode to the atomic and molecular particle products of a plasma, and preferably, means for applying heat or ultra-violet radiation to the photo-cathode at a low temperature to remove any remaining impurities from the photo-cathode.

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Bedford, VA, United States of America

Donald H Stanley