MLCC Humidity Resistance via Segmented Electrode Layers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Multilayer ceramic capacitors (MLCCs) face challenges in humidity resistance reliability, particularly in harsh environments such as electric and self-driving cars, where they are required to endure severe reliability conditions and maintain performance in humid conditions.
Innovation Solution
The capacitor component incorporates dielectric layers with alternately disposed internal electrodes, humidity-resistant layers on the electrode layers, and connection electrode layers that extend through opening portions to prevent humidity permeation, enhancing the capacitor's ability to withstand humidity exposure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional MLCC structure is used, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but humidity resistance reliability deteriorates in harsh environments
Solution Approach 1:
The external electrode is segmented into multiple functional layers: electrode layer, first humidity resistant layer, second humidity resistant layer, and connection electrode layer. This segmentation allows each layer to perform its specific function (electrical conduction, humidity blocking, sealing) independently, improving overall humidity resistance reliability while maintaining manufacturing feasibility through sequential deposition processes
Solution Approach 2:
The first and second humidity resistant layers act as intermediary barrier layers between the electrode layers and the external environment. These intermediate layers specifically block humidity permeation paths and seal fine pores or cracks, preventing direct contact between moisture and the electrode structure, thereby enhancing reliability without fundamentally changing the basic MLCC architecture
2Reliability
If humidity resistant layers are added to block permeation paths, then humidity resistance reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The humidity resistant layers are designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: blocking humidity permeation paths, sealing fine pores or cracks, and maintaining electrical isolation. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components or structures, allowing the patent to improve reliability without proportionally increasing overall device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The humidity resistant layers are implemented as thin film structures that conform to the electrode layer geometry. These thin films provide effective humidity blocking and sealing functions without adding significant volume or structural complexity, allowing the capacitor to maintain its compact form factor while enhancing environmental resistance
Data Source
AI summary
A capacitor component includes a humidity resistant layer formed on a portion of the external surface of a body on which an external electrode is not formed, and further includes a humidity resistant layer disposed inside the external electrode, to improve humidity resistance reliability. The capacitor component includes an opening portion formed by removing a portion of the humidity resistant layer disposed inside the external electrode to improve electrical connection.