No theoretical reason why r couldn't be done, I think the more common guitar amp tubes are even in commercial production in China (and supposedly they've improved the robustness too). Bit of a niche market though.
glasslinger on YouTube has been experimenting with making some of the more unusual tubes too: https://youtu.be/BXAjspPLzRQ
Re:The Art of Making a Nixie Tube [video]
by fake-name on Sunday October 02, 2016 @07:47PM
(#12624857)
Uh, what?
Production involves pumping down to high vacuum, heating to degas, and then refilling with neon/argon at low pressure. Granted the production tube isn't at high vacuum, but it's not equivalent to ambient.
Re:The Art of Making a Nixie Tube [video]
by erikpukinskis on Sunday October 02, 2016 @11:44PM
(#12625440)
When they fill it with gas, wouldn't you say it is no longer a vacuum?
Re:The Art of Making a Nixie Tube [video]
by 3chelon on Monday October 03, 2016 @06:48AM
(#12626401)
This entire class of technology was universally known as "vacuum tubes" for a good reason.
That being said, it would be nice if classic tubes of yesteryear can be remade efficiently. Especially for antique radio enthusiasts.