A very interesting discussion you Boffins are having, as well as entertaining.
I dont profess to understand much more than 10% of the above.

But I would like to take this opportunity of asking Johnny Boy (Cathodix) a question about Diamonds.

I am aware of their High refraction index, high thermal conductivity. And that doped diamond semi-conductors, could be made more radiation resistant due to their higher ionization property.
etc
Question- Do Diamonds exhibit a Negative electron affinity in a vacuum? ie. do their surfaces spontaneously emit Electrons in a vacuum?
If the above is true, then a diamond or diamond film, wired as a (cold) cathode, combined with a high positive grid/anode, could be the subject of some very useful detecting/experiments?

Any comments would be very useful.

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"You will never find a real Human being - Even in a mirror." ....Mike Kremer.