Breakdown Voltage of Discrete Capacitors Under Single-Pulse Conditions

Capacitors subjected to short, constant current pulses will fail when the voltage reaches the breakdown value. A summary of experimental results on breakdown in glass, mica, plastic film, ceramic disc, ceramic multilayer, aluminum electrolytic, and tantalum capacitors is presented. The relationship between breakdown voltage and dielectric material, dielectric thickness, voltage rating, capacitance value, and capacitor construction is discussed.