Working Principle

The MAL209634182E3 aluminum electrolytic capacitor works on the principle of storing electric energy in an electric field, which results from an imbalance between the charges of two capacitors. The capacitor is constructed primarily of an anode, which is a solid metal body, and a cathode, which is typically a metal oxide. This results in the formation of an electric double layer, consisting of two elements; the electrolyte and the oxide. This combination of elements forms an electric field, in which an electric charge is stored.

In order to charge the capacitor, a voltage is applied to both the anode and the cathode. This causes the ions from the anode to enter the electrolyte, form a polarized electric field and a layer of positive ions on the interface between the capacitors. Similarly, the ions from the cathode also form a polarized electric field and a layer of negative ions on the interface between the capacitors. This process allows the capacitor to store and accumulate charge that can be later used for a variety of electronic applications.

To discharge the capacitor, the voltage is reversed. During the discharge phase, the positive ions from the anode move back towards the electrolyte, while the negative ions from the cathode move down towards the anode. Due to this process, electric energy is continuously released from the capacitor, until it is completely discharged. The capacitor will then be ready to be recharged and used again.