elektrolyyttikapasit

Elektrolyyttikapasit is a Finnish term that translates to "electrolytic capacitors" in English. These are a type of capacitor where one of the electrodes is an electrolyte, typically in liquid or solid form, which forms a thin insulating oxide layer on the surface of the other electrode. This oxide layer acts as the dielectric.

Electrolytic capacitors are known for their high capacitance values relative to their size and cost. This makes them suitable for applications requiring significant energy storage, such as in power supply filtering, decoupling, and energy buffering. They are commonly found in electronic devices like televisions, computers, and audio equipment.

However, electrolytic capacitors have limitations. They are polarized, meaning they must be connected in the correct orientation; reversing the polarity can damage or destroy the capacitor. They also tend to have a shorter lifespan compared to other capacitor types, especially at higher temperatures. Their capacitance can also be less stable over time and with temperature variations.

The most common type is the aluminum electrolytic capacitor, which uses an aluminum foil for one electrode and an aluminum oxide layer as the dielectric. Tantalum electrolytic capacitors are another type, offering higher capacitance density and better performance but at a higher cost.