How are tantalum capacitors made?

The design of tantalum capacitors is based on the structure of tantalum, which looks a lot like a sponge. Such a structure contains an anode, a cathode and a dielectric. The manufacturing process of this type of capacitor begins with compressing tantalum powder around a tantalum wire and sintering it at high temperature, to create the anode.

How efficient are tantalum capacitors?

Also, thanks to their spongy structure, tantalum capacitors feature high volumetric efficiency. For instance, standard SMD aluminum electrolytic capacitors have the volumetric efficiency of 11.8 µFV/mm3, whereas tantalum capacitors reach the efficiency of 63 µFV/mm3 and above.

What are Talum electrolytic capacitors?

Tantalum electrolytic capacitors are the preferred choice in applications where volumetric efficiency, stable electrical parameters, high reliability, and long service life are primary considerations.

Are solid tantalum capacitors a good choice for surface mount assembly?

The stability and resistance to elevated temperatures of the tantalum / tantalum oxide / manganese dioxide system make solid tantalum capacitors an appropriate choice for today's surface mount assembly technology.

Which dielectric is used in all tantalums electrolytic capacitors?

The dielectric used in all tantalums electrolytic capacitors is tantalum pentoxide. Tantalum pentoxide compound possesses high dielectric strength and a high dielectric constant. As capacitors are being manufactured, a film of tantalum pentoxide is applied to their electrodes by means of an electrochemical process.

What is a solid leaded tantalum capacitor?

Solid leaded tantalum capacitors: They have higher capacitance density than wet aluminium electrolytic capacitors or solid tantalum type. Higher electron conductivity makes them sensitive to voltage spikes or surge currents. Solid SMD tantalum capacitors: These capacitors use solid electrolyte, and are sensitive to voltage spikes or current surges.