Tantalum Capacitors

Electrolytic capacitors with an anode terminal made of tantalum, covered by a layer of dielectric, surrounded by a conductive cathode

Tantalum capacitors are a subtype of electrolytic capacitors. They are made of tantalum metal which acts as the anode and are covered by a layer of oxide which acts as the dielectric. The use of tantalum allows for a very thin dielectric layer. This results in a higher capacitance value per volume, superior frequency characteristics compared to many other types of capacitors, and excellent stability over time.