Ceramic capacitors are typically very small, inexpensive devices used in cell phones, MP3 players, computers and other electronic products. MLC devices are constructed of alternating layers of metal and ceramic, with the ceramic material acting as the dielectric.
Microstructural analysis of a BaTiO3 ceramic capacitor includes looking for missing metal layers, as well as for examining for any gaps and voids in the ceramic substrate. Microstructural preparation of multilayer BaTiO3 ceramic capacitors requires minimizing polishing relief and damage to the coating or ceramic substrate. This is accomplished by filling the existing voids with a castable resin under vacuum and then curing at a higher pressure. Initial grinding with alumina lapping films is required to open up the capacitor, as well as to minimize microstructural damage. Rough and final polishing are recommended on low napped woven polishing pads using diamond and colloidal silica, respectively.
SECTIONING
Not required
MOUNTING
Castable mounting acrylics or epoxies
POLISHING
Abrasive/surface |
Lubricant |
Force/ sample |
Speed |
Time |
45 micron alumina lapping film |
Water |
5-10 lbs |
100/100 rpm |
Until plane |
15 um DIAMAT diamond on POLYPAD polishing pad |
DIALUBE Purple Extender |
5-10 lbs |
100/100 rpm |
3 minutes |
6 um DIAMAT diamond on GOLDPAD polishing pad |
DIALUBE Purple Extender |
5-10 lbs |
100/100 rpm |
3 minutes |
1 um DIAMAT diamond on ATLANTIS polishing pad |
SIAMAT colloidal silica |
5-10 lbs |
100/100 rpm |
2 minutes |
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BaTiO3 Multi-layer Ceramic Capacitor |
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BaTiO3 Multi-layer Ceramic Capacitor with void in metal layer |