Tantalum capacitors are a type of electrolytic capacitors that are ideal for high capacitance and low current applications. They have a tantalum metal anode electrode (+), an electrolyte cathode (-), and a thin tantalum oxide insulating layer that serves as the dielectric. Tantalum capacitors are known for their high reliability and high capacitance-voltage (CV) product per unit volume at low weights. They are polarized in nature and can be destroyed by reverse voltage. Two polarized capacitors with their anodes facing in opposing directions are efficiently connected in series to create non-polar or bipolar tantalum capacitors.

Tantalum capacitors offer high capacity, long-term stability, and reliability. They also have a low leakage current and are utilized in the sample and hold circuits, for instance, where a long hold duration is achieved by utilizing a low leakage current. Due to their compact size and long-lasting stability, tantalum capacitors are also frequently used for power supply filtering on computer motherboards and mobile phones, most frequently in surface mount form. Since they do not frequently dry out or experience changes in capacitance over time, they are a well-liked alternative to aluminium electrolytic in military applications. Tantalum is used in medical electronics due to its high stability.

Click here to learn more about supercapacitors featured on everything PE.