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Multilayer BaTiO3 Ceramic Capacitor
Specimen Preparation (Class 4 Procedures)
Metallographic Class 4 sample preparation  

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 epoxy or acrylic resins

POLISHING
Abrasive/surface Lubricant Force/ sample Speed
(Head/base)
Time Individual
Force mode
Central Force
mode
45 um Alumina Lapping Film*
30 um Alumina Lapping Film*
Water
5-10 lbs 100/100 rpm Planar
1 min
  Metallographic central polishing force
15 um DIAMAT diamond
on POLYPAD polishing pad
DIALUBE Purple
Extender
5-10 lbs 100/100 rpm 3 min
Metallographic individual polishing force Metallographic central polishing force
6 um DIAMAT diamond
on GOLDPAD polishing pad
DIALUBE Purple
Extender
5-10 lbs 100/100 rpm 3 min Metallographic individual polishing force Metallographic central polishing force
1 um DIAMAT diamond
on ATLANTIS polishing pad
SIAMAT
colloidal silica
5-10 lbs 100/100 rpm 2 min Metallographic individual polishing force Metallographic central polishing force

*Required for central polishing force. Click here for more information on central vs. individual polishing force polishing.

Metallographic micrograph of BaTiO3 capacitor
BaTiO3 Multi-layer Ceramic Capacitor
Metallographic micrograph of BaTiO3 capacitor
BaTiO3 Multi-layer Ceramic Capacitor with void in metal layer

ETCHING

Common Etchants
PACE Technologies Recommended Etchants

PACE Technologies Etchant Database

CAUTION:Safety is very important when etching. Be sure to wear the appropriate protective clothing and observe all WARNINGS on chemical manufacuters SDS (Safety Data Sheets). Also review the COMMENTS and CONDITIONS Section for each etchant.


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