Abstract: A non-consumable electrode for use in arc and plasma devices in an inert gas atmosphere comprising a holder and an active portion made of a refractory metal with emission admixtures, the active portion being connected with the holder so that its outer side surface is exposed to a height exceeding 1/4 of a diameter thereof.

Abstract: A method of treating electrodes intended for operation in argon as electric arc cathodes. Each of the electrodes being treated consists of a holder with an active insert. The active insert comprises elements selected from the series of rare-earth elements, yttrium, alkali-earth elements, elements of Group IV A of the periodic system and compounds thereof, taken separately or in combination. The electrodes are treated in an electric arc burning in an atmosphere of argon and an active gas, such as nitrogen or oxygen. During the course of treatment the electrode functions as a cathode. A mixture of argon and oxygen or argon and nitrogen is fed to the cathode area of the arc. The duration of the electrode treatment cycle is at least 100 times less than that of the electrode operation time in an argon arc. Treatment is conducted by currents that do not exceed the maximum operating current values of the treated electrode. The volume concentration of the active gas in the mixture varies from 0.1 to 100%.