Secondary electron emission characteristics of 3D-printed ceramic insulators with functionally graded lattice structures.

This article focuses on mitigating the multipactor effect—a secondary electron avalanche phenomenon that threatens ceramic insulators under high electric fields in vacuum environments—by employing functionally graded lattice structures (FGLS) on ceramic surfaces. Using particle-in-cell simulations and experimental validation with stereolithography 3D-printed Al2O3 ceramic insulators, the study demonstrates that FGLS disrupts electron avalanches and reduces secondary electron yield (SEY), particularly as lattice fineness increases. The graded lattice structure replaces the conventional macroscopic ceramic/vacuum interface, thereby limiting charge accumulation and improving electrical strength. These findings suggest that integrating FGLS into ceramic insulators can enhance the reliability of electrical and electronic devices operating under stringent vacuum and high-voltage conditions.