Current-voltage characteristic of the thermal ion emission of Na from the Na$_x$Au surface

In a high-vacuum diode, the volt-ampere characteristic of the thermionic emission of Na$^+$ with surface of Na$_x$Au intermetallide. Its hysteresis was found, which is associated with changes in the surface Na$_x$Au caused by the action of an external electric field. In accordance with the Schottky effect, analysis of the current-voltage characteristic and the value of the work function of the Na$_x$Au surface was estimated. Suggested mechanism of thermionic emission of Na$^+$ from the surface of Na$_x$Au.