Evaluation of electrolytic capacitors for high peak current pulse duty

A novel type of electrolytic capacitor has been developed specifically for high peak current applications. Preliminary results of an ongoing research effort to determine the operational characteristics of this type of electrolytic are reported. Electrical characteristics such as equivalent series inductance (ESL) and equivalent series resistance (ESR) have been determined for the first-generation test units. Along with the ESR determination, the adiabatic temperature rise per pulse was measured to assist in cooling system design as well as operation in environments where heat rejection is limited. It is noted that the electrolytic capacitors may facilitate the development of a new class of pulse generators based on high-energy-density components. Pulse generators for mass launchers, very low impedance loads, and space-based applications where volume and weight density are at a premium are ideal target applications for pulse electrolytics.<<ETX>>