CeB6

Cerium hexaboride (CeB6) is a ceramic compound belonging to the rare-earth boride family, valued for its exceptional thermionic emission properties and electrical conductivity at high temperatures. It is primarily used as a cathode material in electron microscopes, field-emission displays, and high-brightness electron guns where reliable, stable electron emission is critical. Engineers select CeB6 over conventional tungsten cathodes in applications requiring lower operating temperatures, extended service life, and superior brightness, though its brittleness and cost limit adoption to specialized instruments where performance justifies the investment.