Abstract :
Tantalum-foil-type capacitors are being increasingly used owing to their very good space factor (up to 10000¿F/in3) and excellent long-term performance. The paper examines briefly the factors affecting the reliability of electrolytic capacitors, particularly the tantalum type, and discusses the main potential failure mechanisms. Detailed results of tests of up to 3 years´ duration on tantalum-foil capacitors at temperatures of up to 85° C, and with a voltage stress of up to 75% initial forming stress, are presented. These results are analysed to demonstrate the effect on reliability of operating stress and operating temperature.
