Development and Manufacture of the Microchannel Plate (MCP)

摘要

This technical report contains an overview of the development and production of a critical night vision electronic device, the microchannel multiplier or microchannel plate (MCP). Technological challenges and manufacturing processes for the second and third generation image intensifier tube systems are outlined including materials selection, thermo-mechanical processing, chemical processing, mechanical processing, and assembly, and cleaning, chemical activation, and electron scrub. also contained in the report are three figures which chart MCP research and development investment/payoff, unit cost reduction curve for second generation, and estimated production cost comparisons of years 1977 and 1987. The Appendix contains Varian Associates' pamphlet MCP-2819B, Applications for Microchannel Plates. Keywords: Image intensifiers(Electronics) cladding glass; Etched core approach; Boule fusion; Chemical etching; Hydrogen firing; Image intensifier tube; Electron scrub; Gallium arsenide. (jes)