US Patent 10950706 Nano-scale energy conversion device

Embodiments relate to an apparatus for nano-scale energy converters and electric power generators. The apparatus include two electrodes with a cavity formed therebetween. The first electrode is an emitter electrode that includes a first base material with a first work function value. A second material is deposited on the first base material to modify the first work function value to a second work function value. The second electrode is a collector electrode that includes a second base material with a third work function value. A fourth material is deposited on the second base material to modify the third work function value to a fourth work function value. The emitter and collector electrodes are designed such that the second work function value is greater than the fourth work function value.