A diode-structure flat-panel luminescent lamp has been fabricated by using carbon nanotube (CNT) film as cathode. The CNT emitters were grown on silicon substrate by catalytic decomposition of acetylene. Studies of scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy show that as-grown CNTs are randomly orientated curved multiwall nanotubes. The I - V characteristics, uniformity, and brightness of the lamp are investigated. The result shows that CNT cathode flat-panel luminescent lamp is promising for lighting application. (C) 2003 American Vacuum Society.