Understanding the Use of Mica in Capacitors: Key Factors and Considerations

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Mica is an insulator with a dielectric constant of around 5, making it suitable for capacitor construction due to its ability to increase capacitance compared to air. When mica fills the air gaps between capacitors, it enhances capacitance according to the formula C=κC. Despite its effectiveness as a dielectric, mica is increasingly being replaced by ceramics in modern applications. The breakdown voltage of mica is also favorable when compared to air, contributing to its historical use. However, advancements in materials have led to a decline in mica's popularity in capacitor manufacturing.
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If fill mica between the air gaps between capacitors will how?
We need consider mica as conductor?
 
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ahjie said:
If fill mica between the air gaps between capacitors will how?
We need consider mica as conductor?

No, mica is an insulator. Look up the dielectric constant of mica, and compare that value to the dielectric constant of air. Do you see now why mica is used in capacitor construction?
 
berkeman said:
No, mica is an insulator. Look up the dielectric constant of mica, and compare that value to the dielectric constant of air. Do you see now why mica is used in capacitor construction?

If the dielectric constant of mica is 5, then apply this formula?(C=κC。)

so make the capacitance of that capacitors higher?is it like this?
 
Also compare breakdown voltage of mica cf. air http://www.allaboutcircuits.com/vol_1/chpt_12/8.html
 
ahjie said:
If the dielectric constant of mica is 5, then apply this formula?(C=κC。)

so make the capacitance of that capacitors higher?is it like this?

Yes. And then add in the comment from NascentOxygen, which I didn't even think of...
 
Mica has been a fantastic dielectric but is abandoned now. We have ceramics.
 
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