Internal structure of super tantalum capacitor

What is the structure of a tantalum wet electrolytic capacitor?

The structure of a Tantalum Wet Electrolytic Capacitor consists of four main elements: a primary electrode (anode), dielectric, a secondary electrode system (cathode) and a wet (liquid) electrolyte. The first, positive electrode (the anode) is a very high surface area structure made of pure tantalum metal.

What are the electrical characteristics of a tantalum capacitor?

Areas of interest are highlighted. The electrical characteristics of a tantalum capacitor are determined by its structure, for example the ESR of a tantalum capacitor is very dependent on the tantalum pentoxide dielectric at low frequencies and on the internal manganese dioxide at higher frequencies.

What are surface mount tantalum capacitors?

Surface mount technology tantalum capacitors are increasingly being used in new circuit designs because of their volumetric efficiency, basic reliability and process compatibility. Additionally, they are replacing aluminum electrolytics, which use a wet electrolyte.

Are solid tantalum capacitors better than wet-electrolyte capacitors?

While the solid tantalum capacitor has dramatically improved electrical performance versus wet-electrolyte capacitors, especially at low temperatures, today’s electronic circuits require even better performance. In response to this need, steady improvements in the equivalent series resistance (ESR) of tantalum capacitors have been made.