Last revised: January 22, 2025

Ceramic capacitors are passive electronic components constructed using a ceramic dielectric. Ceramic materials have been used as insulators since the beginning of the study of electronics. Early ceramic insulators included mica, steatite, and titanium oxide, while modern technical ceramics include barium titanate, silicates, and aluminum oxide.

Ceramic capacitors consist of two electrical conductors separated by a dielectric material, in this case a type of ceramic. They are among the most commonly produced capacitor types. Like other capacitors, ceramic types are used to store potential energy, delay voltage changes, and filter unwanted signals.

For basic information on capacitor construction, capacitance ratings, and applications please see Engineering360's Capacitors Specification Guide.

Types of Ceramic Capacitors

Ceramic capacitors can be broadly classified into two different groups: multilayer and single layer.

Multilayer

Multilayer ceramic capacitors, often referred to as MLCCs, consist of several stacked ceramic capacitors. The image below shows a cross-section of an MLCC. The arrow labeled (1) denotes the stacked ceramic insulators, while (3) points to the electrode.

MLCCs are some of the most common capacitors and are extensively used in electronics applications. They can be produced as very small chips and feature excellent temperature stability and frequency characteristics.

Single Layer

Single layer capacitors, also known as monolithic capacitors, have a single layer dielectric. Single layer devices may take a variety of forms, including:

Dielectric Types

Ceramic capacitors can also be classified by their specific type of dielectric. Most ceramic dielectric types can also be labeled with an EIA (Electronic Industries Alliance) class designation as defined in EIA 535. Note that classes do not determine a product's superiority or inferiority, but exist to group capacitors with similar characteristics and applications.

The EIA labels capacitors using a three digit code to represent the dielectric's capacitance/temperature slope. More information on using these codes can be found here.

C0G (EIA designation) or NP0 ("Negative-Positive Zero"; industry term) materials are typically comprised of titanates, such as titanium dioxide, and are known as EIA Class 1 dielectrics. They have low dielectric constants and remain stable under variable voltage, temperature, and frequency conditions. Class 1 products are typically used in timing circuits and low-loss applications.

X7R is a common Class 2 material typically containing high levels of barium titanate. Class 2 dielectrics are temperature stable but experience moderate electrical property changes under variable environmental and electrical conditions. Class 2 products are relatively less long-lasting when compared to Class 1 materials, and may lose capacitance over time.

Z5U is a Class 3 dielectric material. They feature better volumetric efficiency than Class 2 products but are susceptible to very wide electrical variations under variable temperature conditions. Class 3 devices have generally been replaced by superior MLCCs and are considered nearly obsolete.

Standards

In addition to the EIA standard linked above, some ceramic capacitor standards include:

• MIL-C-11015 — General specification for fixed ceramic capacitors
• MIL-PRF-20 [series] — Reliability of ceramic capacitors

Additional Specifications

For information on additional selection details, including packaging, mounting, and product features, please visit the Capacitors Specification Guide.

Ceramic Capacitors FAQs

How do the different types of ceramic capacitors differ in terms of performance and applications?

Ceramic capacitors come in various types, each with distinct performance characteristics and applications.

Multilayer Ceramic Capacitors (MLCCs)

Performance: MLCCs are known for their small capacitance values, typically ranging from 1 nF to 1 µF. They offer small parasitic inductance, which provides better high-frequency performance compared to electrolytic capacitors. They are also more stable at high temperatures.

Applications: MLCCs are widely used in applications where small capacitance values are needed, such as in high-frequency circuits and temperature-stable environments.

Class 1 Dielectric Capacitors

Performance: These capacitors, such as C0G (NPO), are extremely stable over voltage and temperature and exhibit very little aging. However, they are larger in size compared to Class 2 dielectrics due to lower relative permittivity.

Applications: They are suitable for precision applications where stability is crucial.

Class 2 Dielectric Capacitors

Performance: Common types include X7R, X5R, Z5U, and Y5V. These capacitors are smaller and less expensive but may have more significant changes in capacitance with voltage and temperature variations.

Applications: They are often used in applications where size and cost are more critical than precision, such as general-purpose electronic circuits.

What are the dielectric types used in ceramic capacitors?

Ceramic capacitors utilize different dielectric types, which significantly influence their performance and applications. Here's a detailed look at the dielectric types used in ceramic capacitors:

Class 1 Dielectrics

Characteristics: Class 1 dielectrics are known for their exceptional stability over voltage and temperature, exhibiting minimal aging. The most common type of capacitor using Class 1 dielectrics is C0G, also known as NPO.

Size and Permittivity: These capacitors tend to be larger in size compared to those using Class 2 dielectrics because they have a lower relative permittivity.

Applications: They are ideal for precision applications where stability is crucial, such as in RF circuits and timing applications.

Class 2 Dielectrics

Characteristics: Class 2 dielectrics include types such as X7R, X5R, Z5U, and Y5V. These capacitors are smaller and less expensive but may experience more significant changes in capacitance with voltage and temperature variations.

Applications: They are often used in general-purpose electronic circuits where size and cost are more critical than precision.

What is the impact of temperature on ceramic capacitor performance?

The impact of temperature on ceramic capacitor performance can vary depending on the type of dielectric used in the capacitor. Here's a detailed explanation based on the information available:

Class 1 Dielectrics

Stability: Class 1 dielectrics, such as C0G (NPO), are known for their exceptional stability over temperature. They exhibit minimal changes in capacitance with temperature variations, making them ideal for precision applications where stability is crucial, such as in RF circuits and timing applications.

Performance: These capacitors are larger in size compared to Class 2 dielectrics due to their lower relative permittivity, but they maintain consistent performance across a wide temperature range.

Class 2 Dielectrics

Temperature Sensitivity: Class 2 dielectrics, including types like X7R, X5R, Z5U, and Y5V, are more sensitive to temperature changes. They may experience significant variations in capacitance with temperature fluctuations.

Applications: Despite their sensitivity to temperature, Class 2 capacitors are often used in general-purpose electronic circuits where size and cost are more critical than precision.

Multilayer Ceramic Capacitors (MLCCs)

High-Temperature Stability: MLCCs are noted for their stability at high temperatures compared to other types of capacitors, such as electrolytic capacitors. This makes them suitable for applications requiring small capacitance values and high-frequency performance in temperature-stable environments.

What are the differences between Class 1 and Class 2 dielectrics?

Class 1 Dielectrics

Stability: Class 1 dielectrics are known for their exceptional stability over voltage and temperature, exhibiting very little aging. This makes them ideal for precision applications where stability is crucial, such as in RF circuits and timing applications.

Size and Permittivity: Capacitors using Class 1 dielectrics, such as C0G (NPO), tend to be larger in size compared to those using Class 2 dielectrics. This is because Class 1 materials have a lower relative permittivity.

Applications: Due to their stability, they are suitable for applications requiring precise capacitance values and minimal variation with environmental changes.

Class 2 Dielectrics

Temperature Sensitivity: Class 2 dielectrics, including types like X7R, X5R, Z5U, and Y5V, are more sensitive to temperature changes. They may experience significant variations in capacitance with temperature fluctuations.

Size and Cost: These capacitors are smaller and less expensive than Class 1 capacitors, making them suitable for general-purpose electronic circuits where size and cost are more critical than precision.

Applications: Despite their sensitivity to temperature, Class 2 capacitors are often used in applications where precise capacitance values are not as critical, such as in general-purpose electronic circuits.

What is the voltage dependency of ceramic capacitors?

The voltage dependency of ceramic capacitors can vary significantly depending on the type of dielectric used.

Class 1 Dielectrics

Stability: Class 1 dielectrics, such as C0G (NPO), are extremely stable over voltage and temperature, displaying very little aging. This makes them ideal for precision applications where stability is crucial, such as in RF circuits and timing applications.

Voltage Dependency: These capacitors exhibit minimal changes in capacitance with voltage variations, maintaining consistent performance across a wide voltage range.

Class 2 Dielectrics

Voltage Sensitivity: Class 2 dielectrics, including types like X7R, X5R, Z5U, and Y5V, are more sensitive to voltage changes. They may experience significant variations in capacitance with voltage fluctuations.

Variability: Capacitors of the same brand, dielectric, and voltage rating can have different curves of voltage dependency. For example, a manufacturer's 1206 part might lose 3% of capacitance over its voltage range, while an 0805 part might lose 50%.

What are the advantages of using MLCCs in high-frequency applications?

Multilayer Ceramic Capacitors (MLCCs) offer several advantages in high-frequency applications, which make them a preferred choice over other types of capacitors. Here are the key benefits:

Small Parasitic Inductance

MLCCs have small parasitic inductance, which enhances their performance in high-frequency applications. This characteristic allows them to provide better high-frequency performance compared to electrolytic capacitors.

Stability at High Temperatures

MLCCs are more stable at high temperatures than electrolytic capacitors. This stability is crucial in high-frequency applications where temperature variations can affect performance.

Compact Size and Capacitance Range

They are available in small sizes with capacitance values typically ranging from 1 nF to 1 µF, making them suitable for applications where small capacitance values are needed.

These features make MLCCs highly effective in high-frequency circuits, where maintaining performance and stability is essential.

What is the role of dielectric materials in the performance of MLCCs?

The role of dielectric materials in the performance of Multilayer Ceramic Capacitors (MLCCs) is crucial, as they directly influence the capacitor's characteristics and suitability for various applications.

Dielectric Types

Class 1 Dielectrics: These are known for their exceptional stability over voltage and temperature, exhibiting minimal aging. The most common type of Class 1 dielectric used in capacitors is C0G (NPO). Capacitors with Class 1 dielectrics tend to be larger due to their lower relative permittivity, but they provide consistent performance across a wide range of conditions, making them ideal for precision applications.

Class 2 Dielectrics: These include types such as X7R, X5R, Z5U, and Y5V. Class 2 dielectrics are more sensitive to temperature and voltage changes, which can lead to significant variations in capacitance. However, they are smaller and less expensive, making them suitable for general-purpose applications where size and cost are more critical than precision.

Impact on MLCC Performance

Stability and Precision: The choice of dielectric material affects the stability and precision of the MLCC. Class 1 dielectrics offer high stability, making them suitable for applications requiring precise capacitance values and minimal variation with environmental changes.

Size and Cost: Class 2 dielectrics allow for smaller and more cost-effective capacitors, which are advantageous in applications where these factors are prioritized over precision.

High-Frequency Applications

MLCCs, due to their construction with alternating layers of ceramic and metal, offer small parasitic inductance, enhancing their performance in high-frequency applications. This characteristic is beneficial in circuits where maintaining performance and stability is essential.

What are the differences in voltage dependency between Class 1 and Class 2 dielectrics?

The differences in voltage dependency between Class 1 and Class 2 dielectrics in ceramic capacitors are significant and influence their performance in various applications.

Class 1 Dielectrics

Stability: Class 1 dielectrics, such as C0G (NPO), are extremely stable over voltage and temperature, displaying very little aging. This stability makes them ideal for precision applications where consistent performance is crucial, such as in RF circuits and timing applications.

Voltage Dependency: These capacitors exhibit minimal changes in capacitance with voltage variations, maintaining consistent performance across a wide voltage range.

Class 2 Dielectrics

Voltage Sensitivity: Class 2 dielectrics, including types like X7R, X5R, Z5U, and Y5V, are more sensitive to voltage changes. They may experience significant variations in capacitance with voltage fluctuations.

Variability: Capacitors of the same brand, dielectric, and voltage rating can have different curves of voltage dependency. For example, a manufacturer's 1206 part might lose 3% of capacitance over its voltage range, while an 0805 part might lose 50%.

Ceramic Capacitors Media Gallery

References

Electronics360—The voltage-dependent ceramic chip capacitor

GlobalSpec—Trends in the design and application of different capacitor types

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