Patent ID: 12249464

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the following description, the same elements or elements having the same functions are denoted with the same reference numerals and overlapped explanation is omitted.

First Embodiment

A configuration of a multilayer capacitor C1according to a first embodiment will be described with reference toFIGS.1to3.FIG.1is a perspective view of a multilayer capacitor according to the first embodiment.FIGS.2and3are views illustrating a cross-sectional configuration of the multilayer capacitor according to the first embodiment. In the present embodiment, an electronic component includes, for example, the multilayer capacitor C1.

As illustrated inFIG.1, the multilayer capacitor C1includes an element body3of a rectangular parallelepiped shape and a plurality of external electrodes5. In the present embodiment, the multilayer capacitor C1includes a pair of external electrodes5. The pair of external electrodes5are disposed on an outer surface of the element body3. The pair of external electrodes5are separated from each other. The rectangular parallelepiped shape includes a rectangular parallelepiped shape in which corners and ridges are chamfered, and a rectangular parallelepiped shape in which the corners and ridges are rounded.

The element body3includes a pair of side surfaces3aopposing each other, a pair of side surfaces3copposing each other, and a pair of end surfaces3eopposing each other. The pair of side surfaces3a, the pair of side surfaces3c, and the pair of end surfaces3eeach have a rectangular shape. The pair of side surfaces3aoppose each other in a second direction D2. The pair of side surfaces3coppose each other in a third direction D3. The pair of end surfaces3eoppose each other in a first direction D1. The multilayer capacitor C1is solder-mounted on an electronic device. The electronic device includes, for example, a circuit board or an electronic component. In the multilayer capacitor C1, one side surface3aopposes the electronic device. The one side surface3ais arranged to constitute a mounting surface. The one side surface3ais the mounting surface. One side surface3cof the pair of side surfaces3cmay be arranged to constitute a mounting surface. For example, in a case where the side surface3aconstitutes a first side surface, the side surface3cconstitutes a second side surface.

The second direction D2is a direction orthogonal to each side surface3a, and is orthogonal to the third direction D3. The first direction D1is a direction parallel to each side surface3aand each side surface3c, and is orthogonal to the second direction D2and the third direction D3. The third direction D3is a direction orthogonal to each side surface3c, and the first direction D1is a direction orthogonal to each end surface3e. In the present embodiment, a length of the element body3in the first direction D1is larger than a length of the element body3in the second direction D2and larger than a length of the element body3in the third direction D3. The first direction D1is a longitudinal direction of the element body3. The length of the element body3in the second direction D2and the length of the element body3in the third direction D3may be equal to each other. The length of the element body3in the second direction D2and the length of the element body3in the third direction D3may be different.

The length of the element body3in the second direction D2is a height of the element body3. The length of the element body3in the third direction D3is a width of the element body3. The length of the element body3in the first direction D1is a length of the element body3. In the present embodiment, the height of the element body3is 0.1 to 2.5 mm, the width of the element body3is 0.1 to 5.0 mm, and the length of the element body3is 0.2 to 5.7 mm. For example, the height of the element body3is 2.5 mm, the width of the element body3is 2.5 mm, and the length of the element body3is 3.2 mm.

The pair of side surfaces3cextend in the second direction D2to couple the pair of side surfaces3ato each other. The pair of side surfaces3calso extend in the first direction D1. The pair of end surfaces3eextend in the second direction D2to couple the pair of side surfaces3ato each other. The pair of end surfaces3ealso extend in the third direction D3.

The element body3includes four ridge portions3g, four ridge portions3i, and four ridge portions3j. The ridge portion3gis located between the end surface3eand the side surface3a. The ridge portion3iis located between the end surface3eand the side surface3c. The ridge portion3jis located between the side surface3aand the side surface3c. In the present embodiment, the ridge portions3g,3i, and3jare rounded to be curved. The element body3is subjected to what is called a round chamfering process. The end surface3eand the side surface3aare indirectly adjacent to each other with the ridge portion3ginterposed therebetween. The end surface3eand the side surface3care indirectly adjacent to each other with the ridge portion3iinterposed therebetween. The side surface3aand the side surface3care indirectly adjacent to each other with the ridge portion3jinterposed therebetween.

The element body3is configured through laminating a plurality of dielectric layers in the second direction D2. The element body3includes a plurality of laminated dielectric layers. In the element body3, a lamination direction of the plurality of dielectric layers coincides with the second direction D2. Each dielectric layer includes, for example, a sintered element body of a ceramic green sheet containing a dielectric material. Examples of the dielectric material include dielectric ceramics. Examples of the dielectric ceramics include BaTiO3-based, Ba(Ti, Zr)O3-based, and (Ba, Ca)TiO3-based dielectric ceramics. In the actual element body3, each of the dielectric layers is integrated to such an extent that a boundary between the dielectric layers cannot be visually recognized.

As illustrated inFIGS.2and3, the multilayer capacitor C1includes a plurality of internal electrodes7and a plurality of internal electrodes9. Each of the internal electrodes7and9is an internal conductor disposed in the element body3. Each of the internal electrodes7and9is made of an electrically conductive material that is commonly used as an internal conductor of a multilayer electronic component. The electrically conductive material includes, for example, a base metal. The electrically conductive material includes, for example, Ni or Cu. Each of the internal electrodes7and9is configured as a sintered body of electrically conductive paste containing the electrically conductive material described above. In the present embodiment, the internal electrodes7and9are made of Ni.

The internal electrodes7and the internal electrodes9are disposed in different positions (layers) in the second direction D2. The internal electrodes7and the internal electrodes9are alternately disposed in the element body3to oppose each other in the second direction D2with an interval therebetween. The internal electrodes7and the internal electrodes9have different polarities from each other. One end of each of the internal electrodes7and9is exposed to a corresponding end surface3eof the pair of end surfaces3e. Each of the internal electrodes7and9includes the one end exposed to the corresponding end surface3e.

The plurality of internal electrodes7and the plurality of internal electrodes9are alternately disposed in the second direction D2. The plurality of internal electrodes7and the plurality of internal electrodes9are disposed in the element body3to be distributed in the second direction D2. Each of the plurality of internal electrodes7and the plurality of internal electrodes9is located in a plane approximately parallel to the side surface3a. The internal electrode7and the internal electrode9oppose each other in the second direction D2. The direction (second direction D2) in which the internal electrode7and the internal electrode9oppose each other is orthogonal to a direction parallel to the side surface3a(third direction D3and first direction D1).

In the present embodiment, the plurality of internal electrodes7include one internal electrode7A located outermost in the second direction D2. The internal electrode7A is an outermost internal electrode.

In the present embodiment, the plurality of internal electrodes9include one internal electrode9A located outermost in the second direction D2. The internal electrode9A is an outermost internal electrode.

InFIG.3, for the sake of explanation, the internal electrodes7and9(internal electrodes7A and9A) are intentionally illustrated so as to deviate from each other in the third direction D3.

As illustrated inFIG.1, the external electrodes5are disposed at both ends of the element body3in the first direction D1. Each external electrode5is disposed on the corresponding end surface3eside of the element body3. In the present embodiment, each external electrode5is element on the pair of side surfaces3a, the pair of side surfaces3c, and the end surface3e. The external electrode5includes a plurality of electrode portions5a,5c, and5eas illustrated inFIGS.2and3. The electrode portion5ais disposed on the side surface3aand on the ridge portion3g. Each electrode portion5cis disposed on the side surface3cand on the ridge portion3i. The electrode portion5eis disposed on the end surface3e. The external electrode5also includes an electrode portion disposed on the ridge portion3j.

The external electrodes5are formed on the five surfaces of the pair of side surfaces3a, the end surface3e, and the pair of side surfaces3cand the ridge portions3g,3i, and3j. The electrode portions5a,5c, and5eadjacent to each other are coupled and are electrically connected to each other. The electrode portion5ecovers all the one ends of the corresponding internal electrodes7and9of the plurality of internal electrodes7and9. The electrode portion5eis directly connected to the corresponding internal electrodes7and9. The external electrode5is electrically connected to the corresponding internal electrodes7and9. As illustrated inFIGS.2and3, the external electrode5includes a first electrode layer E1, a second electrode layer E2, and a third electrode layer E3. The third electrode layer E3is arranged to constitute the outermost layer of the external electrode5. Each of the electrode portions5aand5cincludes the first electrode layer E1, the second electrode layer E2, and the third electrode layer E3. Each electrode portion5eincludes the first electrode layer E1and the third electrode layer E3.

The first electrode layer E1of the electrode portion5ais disposed on the side surface3aand the ridge portion3g. The first electrode layer E1of the electrode portion5ais formed to cover one part of the side surface3aand the entire ridge portion3g. The first electrode layer E1of the electrode portion5ais in contact with the above-described one part of the side surface3aand the entire ridge portion3g. In the electrode portion5a, the first electrode layer E1is in direct contact with the element body3. The side surface3ais covered with the first electrode layer E1at the above-described one part, and is exposed from the first electrode layer E1at the remaining part except the above-described one part. The above-described one part of the side surface3ais a partial region near the end surface3e, in the side surface3a. The first electrode layer E1of the electrode portion5ais located on the side surface3a. The first electrode layer E1may not be formed on the side surface3a. The first electrode layer E1may not be disposed on the side surface3a.

The second electrode layer E2of the electrode portion5ais disposed on the first electrode layer E1and on the side surface3a. In the electrode portion5a, the second electrode layer E2is formed to cover the first electrode layer E1and a part of the side surface3a. In the electrode portion5a, the second electrode layer E2is in direct contact with the first electrode layer E1and the side surface3a. The second electrode layer E2of the electrode portion5ais formed to cover the first electrode layer E1of the electrode portion5a. In the electrode portion5a, the second electrode layer E2indirectly covers the side surface3ain such a manner that the first electrode layer E1is located between the second electrode layer E2and the side surface3a. The second electrode layer E2of the electrode portion5ais located on the side surface3a.

The third electrode layer E3of the electrode portion5ais disposed on the second electrode layer E2. In the electrode portion5a, the third electrode layer E3covers the second electrode layer E2. In the electrode portion5a, the third electrode layer E3is in contact with the second electrode layer E2. In the electrode portion5a, the third electrode layer E3is in direct contact with the second electrode layer E2. In the electrode portion5a, the third electrode layer E3is not in direct contact with the first electrode layer E1. The third electrode layer E3of the electrode portion5ais located on the side surface3a.

The first electrode layer E1of the electrode portion5cis disposed on the side surface3cand the ridge portion3i. The first electrode layer E1of the electrode portion5cis formed to cover one part of the side surface3cand the entire ridge portion3i. The first electrode layer E1of the electrode portion5cis in contact with the above-described one part of the side surface3cand the entire ridge portion3i. In the electrode portion5c, the first electrode layer E1is in direct contact with the element body3. The side surface3cis covered with the first electrode layer E1at the above-described one part, and is exposed from the first electrode layer E1at the remaining part except the above-described one part. The above-described one part of the side surface3cis a partial region near the end surface3e, in the side surface3c. The first electrode layer E1of the electrode portion5cis located on the side surface3c. The first electrode layer E1may not be formed on the side surface3c. The first electrode layer E1may not be disposed on the side surface3c.

The second electrode layer E2of the electrode portion5cis disposed on the first electrode layer E1and on the side surface3c. In the electrode portion5c, the second electrode layer E2is formed to cover the first electrode layer E1and a part of the side surface3c. In the electrode portion5c, the second electrode layer E2is in direct contact with the first electrode layer E1and the side surface3c. The second electrode layer E2of the electrode portion5cis formed to cover the first electrode layer E1of the electrode portion5c. In the electrode portion5c, the second electrode layer E2indirectly covers the side surface3cin such a manner that the first electrode layer E1is located between the second electrode layer E2and the side surface3c. The second electrode layer E2of the electrode portion5cis located on the side surface3c.

The third electrode layer E3of the electrode portion5cis disposed on the second electrode layer E2. In the electrode portion5c, the third electrode layer E3covers the second electrode layer E2. In the electrode portion5c, the third electrode layer E3is in contact with the second electrode layer E2. In the electrode portion5c, the third electrode layer E3is in direct contact with the second electrode layer E2. In the electrode portion5c, the third electrode layer E3is not in direct contact with the first electrode layer E1. The third electrode layer E3of the electrode portion5cis located on the side surface3c.

The first electrode layer E1of the electrode portion5eis disposed on the end surface3e. The first electrode layer E1of the electrode portion5eis formed to cover the entire end surface3e. The first electrode layer E1of the electrode portion5eis in contact with the entire end surface3e. In the electrode portion5e, the first electrode layer E1is in direct contact with the end surface3e.

The third electrode layer E3of the electrode portion5eis disposed on the first electrode layer E1. In the electrode portion5e, the third electrode layer E3covers the entire first electrode layer E1. In the electrode portion5e, the third electrode layer E3is in contact with the entire first electrode layer E1. In the electrode portion5e, the third electrode layer E3is in direct contact with the first electrode layer E1. The third electrode layer E3of the electrode portion5eis located on the end surface3e.

The first electrode layer E1is formed from sintering electrically conductive paste applied onto the surface of the element body3. The first electrode layer E1is formed to cover the above-described one part of the side surface3a, the above-described one part of the side surface3c, the end surface3e, and the ridge portions3g,3i, and3j. The first electrode layer E1is formed from sintering a metal component contained in the electrically conductive paste. The metal component contained in the electrically conductive paste includes, for example, a metal particle. The first electrode layer E1includes a sintered metal layer. The first electrode layer E1includes a sintered metal layer formed on the element body3. In the present embodiment, the first electrode layer E1includes a sintered metal layer made of Cu. The first electrode layer E1may include a sintered metal layer made of Ni. The first electrode layer E1contains a base metal. The electrically conductive paste contains, for example, particles formed of Cu or Ni, a glass component, an organic binder, and an organic solvent. The first electrode layer E1included in each of the electrode portions5a,5c, and5eis integrally formed.

The second electrode layer E2is formed from curing electrically conductive resin applied onto the first electrode layer E1and the element body3. The second electrode layer E2is formed on the first electrode layer E1and the element body3. The first electrode layer E1is an underlying metal layer for forming the second electrode layer E2. The second electrode layer E2is an electrically conductive resin layer that covers the first electrode layer E1. The conductive resin contains, for example, a resin, an electrically conductive material, and an organic solvent. The resin includes, for example, a thermosetting resin. The conductive material includes, for example, metal particles. Metal particles include, for example, silver particles or copper particles. In the present embodiment, the second electrode layer E2includes a plurality of silver particles. The second electrode layer E2includes a plurality of metal particles. The thermosetting resin is, for example, a phenol resin, an acrylic resin, a silicone resin, an epoxy resin, or a polyimide resin. The second electrode layer E2is in contact with a part of the ridge portion3j. The second electrode layer E2included in each of the electrode portions5aand5cis integrally formed.

The third electrode layer E3is formed on the second electrode layer E2and on the first electrode layer E1(a portion exposed from the second electrode layer E2) through a plating method. The third electrode layer E3may have a multilayer structure. In this case, the third electrode layer E3includes, for example, an Ni plating layer and a solder plating layer. The Ni plating layer is formed on the second electrode layer E2and on the first electrode layer E1. The solder plating layer is formed on the Ni plating layer. The solder plating layer covers the Ni plating layer. The Ni plating layer has better solder leach resistance than the metal contained in the second electrode layer E2. The third electrode layer E3may include an Sn plating layer, a Cu plating layer, or an Au plating layer instead of the Ni plating layer. The solder plating layer includes, for example, an Sn plating layer, an Sn—Ag alloy plating layer, an Sn—Bi alloy plating layer, or an Sn—Cu alloy plating layer. The third electrode layer E3included in each of the electrode portions5a,5c, and5eis integrally formed.

For example, in a case where the electrode portion5cconstitutes a first electrode portion, the electrode portion5aconstitutes a second electrode portion. In the present embodiment, the electrode portion5edoes not include the second electrode layer E2.

The multilayer capacitor C1includes an insulating film21as illustrated inFIGS.2and3. The insulating film21is disposed on the element body3. The insulating film21includes a film portion21adisposed on each side surface3cand a film portion21bdisposed on each side surface3a. In the present embodiment, the film portion21aand the film portion21bare integrally formed. The insulating film21is made of, for example, a resin having an electrical insulating property. The resin constituted the insulating film21includes, for example, an acrylic resin, a polyurethane resin, an epoxy resin, or a polyolefin resin. The insulating film21does not include a filler having electrical conductivity.

As illustrated inFIG.4, the film portion21ais disposed on the side surface3cto be along an edge E2ceof the second electrode layer E2included in the electrode portion5c.FIG.4is a view illustrating a second electrode layer and an insulating film.

The film portion21ais disposed on the side surface3cto continuously cover the edge E2ceand a region exposed from the external electrode5on the side surface3c. In the present embodiment, the film portion21ais in direct contact with the second electrode layer E2and the side surface3c. The film portion21ais disposed to directly cover the edge E2ceand the side surface3c. On the side surface3c, the film portion21aextends along the edge E2ce. In the electrode portion5c, the film portion21acovers a part of the second electrode layer E2and the part of the second electrode layer E2covered with the film portion21aincludes the edge E2ce. The third electrode layer E3of the electrode portion5cis formed in a region of the second electrode layer E2that is exposed from the film portion21a.

As illustrated inFIG.3, a width W1of the film portion21ais 5% or more of a width W2of the external electrode5. The width W1is the length of the film portion21ain the first direction D1. The width W2of the external electrode5is the length of the external electrode5in the first direction D1.

As illustrated inFIG.5, the film portion21bis disposed on the side surface3ato be along an edge E2aeof the second electrode layer E2included in the electrode portion5a.FIG.5is a view illustrating a second electrode layer and an insulating film.

The film portion21bis disposed on the side surface3ato continuously cover the edge E2aeand a region exposed from the external electrode5on the side surface3a. In the present embodiment, the film portion21bis in direct contact with the second electrode layer E2and the side surface3a. The film portion21bis disposed to directly cover the edge E2aeand the side surface3a. On the side surface3a, the film portion21bextends along the edge E2ae. In the electrode portion5a, the film portion21bcovers a part of the second electrode layer E2and the part of the second electrode layer E2covered with the film portion21bincludes the edge E2ae. The third electrode layer E3of the electrode portion5ais formed in a region of the second electrode layer E2that is exposed from the film portion21b.

As illustrated inFIG.2, a width W3of the film portion21bis 5% or more of the width W2. The width W3is the length of the film portion21bin the first direction D1. The width W3may be the same as the width W1or may be different from the width W1.

When the multilayer capacitor C1is solder-mounted on an electronic device, an external force acting on the multilayer capacitor C1from the electronic device may act on the element body3through the electrode portion5c. The external force is transmitted to the electrode portion5cfrom the solder fillet formed in solder-mounting. The electronic device includes, for example, a circuit board or an electronic component.

In the multilayer capacitor C1, the electrode portion5cincludes the second electrode layer E2. Therefore, the external force tends not to act on the element body3from the electrode portion5c. Consequently, the multilayer capacitor C1controls occurrence of cracks in the element body3.

The external force acting on the multilayer capacitor C1from the electronic device may act on the element body3through the electrode portion5a.

In the multilayer capacitor C1, the electrode portion5aincludes the second electrode layer E2. Therefore, the external force tends not to act on the element body3from the electrode portion5a. Consequently, the multilayer capacitor C1further controls the occurrence of cracks in the element body3.

In the multilayer capacitor C1, the film portion21acovers the edge E2ceof the second electrode layer E2included in the electrode portion5c. Therefore, metal ions tend not to migrate from the second electrode layer E2of the electrode portion5ceven in a case where the metal ions are generated in the second electrode layer E2of the electrode portion5cdue to an electric field generated between the internal electrodes7and the second electrode layer E2of the electrode portion5cnot electrically connected to the internal electrodes7or an electric field generated between the internal electrodes9and the second electrode layer E2of the electrode portion5cnot electrically connected to the internal electrodes9. The film portion21aregulates migration of the metal ions. Consequently, the multilayer capacitor C1controls occurrence of the migration.

In the multilayer capacitor C1, the film portion21bcovers the edge E2aeof the second electrode layer E2included in the electrode portion5a. Therefore, metal ions tend not to migrate from the second electrode layer E2of the electrode portion5aeven in a case where the metal ions are generated in the second electrode layer E2of the electrode portion5adue to an electric field generated between the internal electrode7A and the second electrode layer E2of the electrode portion5anot electrically connected to the internal electrode7A or an electric field generated between the internal electrode9A and the second electrode layer E2of the electrode portion5anot electrically connected to the internal electrode9A. The film portion21bregulates migration of the metal ions. Consequently, the multilayer capacitor C1further controls the occurrence of the migration.

The second electrode layer E2includes the plurality of silver particles. Silver particles tend to cause migration as compared with, for example, copper particles.

The multilayer capacitor C1reliably controls the occurrence of the migration even when the second electrode layer E2includes the plurality of silver particles.

Next, a mounting structure of the multilayer capacitor C1will be described with reference toFIG.6.FIG.6is a view illustrating the mounting structure of a multilayer capacitor according to the present embodiment.

As illustrated inFIG.6, an electronic component device includes the multilayer capacitor C1and an electronic device ED. The electronic device ED includes, for example, a circuit board or an electronic component. The multilayer capacitor C1is solder-mounted on the electronic device ED. The electronic device ED includes a principal surface EDa and two pad electrodes PE. Each pad electrode PE is disposed on the principal surface EDa. The two pad electrodes PE are separated from each other. The multilayer capacitor C1is disposed on the electronic device ED in such a manner that the side surface3aarranged to constitute the mounting surface and the principal surface EDa oppose each other. Each of the internal electrodes7and9is located in a plane approximately parallel to the principal surface EDa. When the side surface3cis arranged to constitute the mounting surface, each of the internal electrodes7and9is located in a plane approximately orthogonal to the principal surface EDa.

In solder-mounting the multilayer capacitor C1, the molten solder wets the external electrode5(third electrode layer E3). Solidification of the wet solder causes a solder fillet SF to be formed on the external electrode5. The external electrodes5and the pad electrodes PE corresponding to each other are connected to each other through the solder fillet SF.

Next, a configuration of a multilayer capacitor C11according to a modification of the first embodiment will be described with reference toFIG.7.FIG.7is a view illustrating a cross-sectional configuration of a multilayer capacitor according to the modification of the first embodiment. The multilayer capacitor C11according to this modification is generally similar to or the same as the multilayer capacitor C1described above. However, this modification is different from the above-described first embodiment in the configuration of the electrode portion5e. Hereinafter, differences between the above-described first embodiment and this modification will be mainly described.

Each electrode portion5eincludes a first electrode layer E1, a second electrode layer E2, and a third electrode layer E3.

The second electrode layer E2of the electrode portion5eis disposed on the first electrode layer E1. In the electrode portion5e, the second electrode layer E2is formed to cover the entire first electrode layer E1. In the electrode portion5e, the second electrode layer E2is in direct contact with the first electrode layer E1. In the electrode portion5e, the second electrode layer E2indirectly covers the end surface3ein such a manner that the first electrode layer E1is located between the second electrode layer E2and the end surface3e. The second electrode layer E2of the electrode portion5eis located on the end surface3e.

The third electrode layer E3of the electrode portion5eis disposed on the second electrode layer E2. In the electrode portion5e, the third electrode layer E3covers the entire second electrode layer E2. In the electrode portion5e, the third electrode layer E3is in contact with the entire second electrode layer E2. In the electrode portion5e, the third electrode layer E3is in direct contact with the second electrode layer E2. In the electrode portion5e, the third electrode layer E3is not in direct contact with the first electrode layer E1. The second electrode layer E2included in each of the electrode portions5a,5c, and5eis integrally formed.

The configuration in which the electrode portion5eincludes the second electrode layer E2reduces stress acting on the solder fillet formed on the electrode portion5e. Therefore, the multilayer capacitor C11controls occurrence of solder cracks.

Next, a configuration of a multilayer capacitor C12according to a modification of the first embodiment will be described with reference toFIG.8.FIG.8is a view illustrating a cross-sectional configuration of a multilayer capacitor according to the modification of the first embodiment. The multilayer capacitor C12according to this modification is generally similar to or the same as the multilayer capacitor C1described above. However, this modification is different from the above-described first embodiment in the configuration of the electrode portion5aand the insulating film21. Hereinafter, differences between the above-described first embodiment and this modification will be mainly described.

As illustrated inFIG.8, the electrode portion5amay not include the second electrode layer E2.

The third electrode layer E3of the electrode portion5ais disposed on the first electrode layer E1. In the electrode portion5a, the third electrode layer E3covers the entire first electrode layer E1. In the electrode portion5a, the third electrode layer E3is in contact with the entire first electrode layer E1. In the electrode portion5a, the third electrode layer E3is in direct contact with the first electrode layer E1. The third electrode layer E3of the electrode portion5ais located on the side surface3a.

In the configuration in which the electrode portion5adoes not include the second electrode layer E2, the second electrode layer E2and the internal electrode7that are not electrically connected to each other do not oppose each other in the second direction D2, and the second electrode layer E2and the internal electrode9that are not electrically connected to each other do not oppose each other in the second direction D2. Therefore, the insulating film21may not include the film portion21b. Even when the insulating film21does not include the film portion21b, the multilayer capacitor C12further controls the occurrence of the migration.

In the configuration in which the electrode portion5adoes not include the second electrode layer E2, the insulating film21may not include the film portion21bas illustrated inFIG.8. Even in the configuration in which the insulating film21does not include the film portion21b, the insulating film21includes the film portion21aas in the multilayer capacitor C1illustrated inFIG.3.

Next, a configuration of a multilayer capacitor C13according to a modification of the first embodiment will be described with reference toFIGS.9to11.FIGS.9,10, and11are views illustrating a cross-sectional configuration of a multilayer capacitor according to the modification of the first embodiment. The multilayer capacitor C13according to this modification is generally similar to or the same as the multilayer capacitor C1described above. However, this modification is different from the above-described first embodiment in the configuration of the internal electrodes7A and9A and the insulating film21. Hereinafter, differences between the above-described first embodiment and this modification will be mainly described.

The internal electrode7A includes a pair of ends7Ae1and7Ae2opposing each other in the first direction D1, as illustrated inFIGS.9and10. The end7Ae1is exposed to the end surface3e. The end7Ae2is located within the element body3. The internal electrode9A includes a pair of ends9Ae1and9Ae2opposing each other in the first direction D1, as illustrated inFIGS.9and11. The end9Ae1is exposed to the end surface3e. The end9Ae2is located within the element body3. For example, when each of the ends7Ae1and9Ae1constitutes a first end, each of the ends7Ae2and9Ae2constitutes a second end.

The second electrode layer E2of the electrode portion5ais located on the side surface3a. Each second electrode layer E2located on the same side surface3aincludes an edge E2ae. On the same side surface3a, the edge E2aeof one second electrode layer E2opposes the edge E2aeof the other second electrode layer E2.

As illustrated inFIG.9, a length L11is larger than a length L21. The length L11is the length of the internal electrode7A in the first direction D1from a reference plane PL1. The length L21is a length in the first direction D1from the reference plane PL1to the edge E2aeof the second electrode layer E2electrically connected to the internal electrode7A. Therefore, when the internal electrode7A and the second electrode layer E2electrically connected to the internal electrode7A are viewed from the second direction D2, the end7Ae2is exposed from the second electrode layer E2electrically connected to the internal electrode7A.

The length L11is smaller than a length L31. The length L31is a length in the first direction D1from the reference plane PL1to the edge E2aeof the second electrode layer E2not electrically connected the internal electrode7A. Therefore, when the internal electrode7A and the second electrode layer E2not electrically connected the internal electrode7A are viewed from the second direction D2, the internal electrode7A and the second electrode layer E2not electrically connected the internal electrode7A does not overlap each other.

The reference plane PL1includes the end surface3eto which the end7Ae1of the internal electrode7A is exposed. For example, when the length L11constitutes a first length, the length L21constitutes a second length and the length L31constitutes a third length.

A length L12is larger than a length L22. The length L12is the length of the internal electrode9A in the first direction D1from a reference plane PL2. The length L22is a length in the first direction D1from the reference plane PL2to the edge E2aeof the second electrode layer E2electrically connected to the internal electrode9A. Therefore, when the internal electrode9A and the second electrode layer E2electrically connected to the internal electrode9A are viewed from the second direction D2, the end9Ae2is exposed from the second electrode layer E2electrically connected to the internal electrode9A.

The length L12is smaller than a length L32. The length L32is a length in the first direction D1from the reference plane PL2to the edge E2aeof the second electrode layer E2not electrically connected to the internal electrode9A. Therefore, when the internal electrode9A and the second electrode layer E2not electrically connected to the internal electrode9A are viewed from the second direction D2, the internal electrode9A and the second electrode layer E2not electrically connected to the internal electrode9A does not overlap each other.

The reference plane PL2includes the end surface3eto which the end9Ae1of the internal electrode9A is exposed. For example, when the length L12constitutes a first length, the length L22constitutes a second length and the length L32constitutes a third length.

A length L41is smaller than the length L21. The length L41is a length in the first direction D1from the reference plane PL1to the other end of the internal electrode9. Therefore, when the internal electrode9not electrically connected to the internal electrode7A and the second electrode layer E2to which the internal electrode7A is electrically connected are viewed from the second direction D2, the internal electrode9and the second electrode layer E2to which the internal electrode7A is electrically connected overlap each other.

A length L42is smaller than the length L22. The length L42is a length in the first direction D1from the reference plane PL2to the other end of the internal electrode7. Therefore, when the internal electrode7not electrically connected to the internal electrode9A and the second electrode layer E2electrically connected to the internal electrode9A are viewed from the second direction D2, the internal electrode7and the second electrode layer E2electrically connected to the internal electrode9A overlap each other.

The length L11and the length L12may be equal or different. The length L21and the length L22may be equal or different. The length L31and the length L32may be equal or different. The length L41and the length L42may be equal or different.

The multilayer capacitor C13includes a plurality of conductors11and13. The multilayer capacitor C13includes two conductors11and13. InFIGS.10and11, for the sake of explanation, the internal electrodes7and9(internal electrodes7A and9A) and the conductors11and13are intentionally illustrated so as to deviate from each other in the third direction D3. Each of conductors11and13constitutes an electrical conductor.

The conductor11is located in the same layer as the internal electrode7A and is separated from the internal electrode7A. The conductor11includes one end exposed to the corresponding end surface3e. The one end of the conductor11is exposed to the end surface3eto which one end of the internal electrode9is exposed. The one end of the conductor11is completely covered with the corresponding electrode portion5e. The conductor11is directly connected to the corresponding electrode portion5e. The conductor11is electrically connected to the corresponding external electrode5. In the multilayer capacitor C13, the conductor11is electrically connected to the external electrode5(electrode portion5e) electrically connected to the internal electrode9. The conductor11is electrically connected to the external electrode5not electrically connected to the internal electrode7.

The conductor13is located in the same layer as the internal electrode9A and is separated from the internal electrode9A. The conductor13includes one end exposed to the corresponding end surface3e. The one end of the conductor13is exposed to the end surface3eto which one end of the internal electrode7is exposed. The one end of the conductor13is completely covered with the corresponding electrode portion5e. The conductor13is directly connected to the corresponding electrode portion5e. The conductor13is electrically connected to the corresponding external electrode5. In the multilayer capacitor C13, the conductor13is electrically connected to the external electrode5(electrode portion5e) electrically connected to the internal electrode7. The conductor13is electrically connected to the external electrode5not electrically connected to the internal electrode9.

The conductors11and13constitute dummy conductors that tend not to contribute to generation of capacitance.

In the multilayer capacitor C13, the lengths L11and L12are larger than the lengths L21and L22. Therefore, the internal electrode9adjacent to the internal electrode7A in the second direction D2and the second electrode layer E2included in the electrode portion5aadjacent to the internal electrode7A in the second direction D2are not electrically connected to each other, but tend not to oppose each other in the second direction D2. The internal electrode7adjacent to the internal electrode9A in the second direction D2and the second electrode layer E2included in the electrode portion5aadjacent to the internal electrode9A in the second direction D2are not electrically connected to each other, but tend not to oppose each other in the second direction D2. An electric field tends not to be generated between the second electrode layer E2and the internal electrode7that are not electrically connected to each other, and between the second electrode layer E2and the internal electrode9that are not electrically connected to each other.

The lengths L11and L12are smaller than the lengths L31and L32. Therefore, the internal electrode7A tends not to oppose the second electrode layer E2included in the electrode portion5anot electrically connected to the internal electrode7A, in the second direction D2, and the internal electrode9A tends not to oppose the second electrode layer E2included in the electrode portion5anot electrically connected to the internal electrode9A, in the second direction D2. An electric field tends not to be generated between the second electrode layer E2and the internal electrode7A that are not electrically connected to each other, and between the second electrode layer E2and the internal electrode9A that are not electrically connected to each other.

Consequently, the multilayer capacitor C13further controls the occurrence of the migration. Therefore, the insulating film21may not include the film portion21b.

In the multilayer capacitor C13, the conductor11is electrically connected to the external electrode5not electrically connected to the internal electrode7A. The conductor13is electrically connected to the external electrode5not electrically connected to the internal electrode9A.

In the configuration in which the conductor11is located in the same layer as the internal electrode7A and the conductor13is located in the same layer as the internal electrode9A, structural defects tend not to occur in the element body3.

Next, a configuration of a multilayer capacitor C14according to a modification of the first embodiment will be described with reference toFIGS.12to14.FIGS.12,13, and14are views illustrating a cross-sectional configuration of a multilayer capacitor according to the modification of the first embodiment. The multilayer capacitor C14according to this modification is generally similar to or the same as the multilayer capacitor C13illustrated inFIGS.9to11. However, this modification is different from the multilayer capacitor C13in the configuration of the conductors11and13. Hereinafter, differences between the multilayer capacitor C13and this modification will be mainly described.

The multilayer capacitor C14includes a pair of conductors11and13. InFIGS.13and14, for the sake of explanation, the internal electrodes7A and9A and the conductors11and13are intentionally illustrated so as to deviate from each other in the third direction D3. Even in the multilayer capacitor C14, the conductors11and13constitute dummy conductors that tend not to contribute to generation of capacitance. Each of conductors11and13constitutes an electrical conductor.

The conductor11is adjacent to one side surface3ain the second direction D2. The conductor11is adjacent to the internal electrode9A in the second direction D2. The conductor11is located between the one side surface3aand the internal electrode9A. The conductor11includes a portion11aand a portion11b.

The portion11aopposes the second electrode layer E2in the second direction D2. The second electrode layer E2opposing the portion11ais not electrically connected to the internal electrode9A and is disposed on the one side surface3a. Therefore, the conductor11opposes the second electrode layer E2not electrically connected to the internal electrode9A, in the second direction D2.

The portion11bopposes the second electrode layer E2in the second direction D2. The second electrode layer E2opposing the portion11bis electrically connected to the internal electrode9A and is disposed on the one side surface3a.

For example, when the portion11aconstitutes a first portion, the portion11bconstitutes a second portion.

The portion11ais separated from the portion11bin the first direction D1and is not electrically connected to any second electrode layer E2. The portion11aincludes no end exposed to the surface of the element body3.

The portion11bis electrically connected to the second electrode layer E2opposing the portion11bin the second direction D2. The portion11bincludes an end exposed to the end surface3eto which the internal electrode9A is exposed. The portion11bis directly connected to the external electrode5(electrode portion5e) electrically connected to the internal electrode9A, at the end exposed to the end surface3e. The portion11bis electrically connected to the external electrode5to which the internal electrode9A is electrically connected.

The conductor13is adjacent to the other side surface3ain the second direction D2. The conductor13is adjacent to the internal electrode7A in the second direction D2. The conductor13is located between the other side surface3aand the internal electrode7A. The conductor13includes a portion13aand a portion13b.

The portion13aopposes the second electrode layer E2in the second direction D2. The second electrode layer E2opposing the portion13ais not electrically connected to the internal electrode7A and is disposed on the other side surface3a. Therefore, the conductor13opposes the second electrode layer E2not electrically connected to the internal electrode7A, in the second direction D2.

The portion13bopposes the second electrode layer E2in the second direction D2. The second electrode layer E2opposing the portion13bis electrically connected to the internal electrode7A and is disposed on the other side surface3a.

The portion13ais separated from the portion13bin the first direction D1and is not electrically connected to any second electrode layer E2. The portion13aincludes no end exposed to the surface of the element body3.

The portion13bis electrically connected to the second electrode layer E2opposing the portion13bin the second direction D2. The portion13bincludes an end exposed to the end surface3eto which the internal electrode7A is exposed. The portion13bis directly connected to the external electrode5(electrode portion5e) electrically connected to the internal electrode7A, at the end exposed to the end surface3e. The portion13bis electrically connected to the external electrode5to which the internal electrode7A is electrically connected.

For example, when the portion13aconstitutes a first portion, the portion13bconstitutes a second portion.

The end7Ae2overlaps the conductor13(portion13a) when viewed from the second direction D2. In the positional relationship between the internal electrode9A, the second electrode layer E2not electrically connected to the internal electrode9A and disposed on the one side surface3a, and the conductor13(portion13a), the conductor13(portion13a) is located between the internal electrode9A and the second electrode layer E2. Therefore, in the above-described positional relationship, the internal electrode9A and the second electrode layer E2not electrically connected to the internal electrode9A and disposed on the one side surface3ado not oppose each other in the second direction D2.

The end9Ae2overlaps the conductor11(portion11a) when viewed from the second direction D2. In the positional relationship between the internal electrode7A, the second electrode layer E2not electrically connected to the internal electrode7A and disposed on the other side surface3a, and the conductor11(portion11a), the conductor11(portion11a) is located between the internal electrode7A and the second electrode layer E2. Therefore, in the above-described positional relationship, the internal electrode7A and the second electrode layer E2not electrically connected to the internal electrode7A and disposed on the other side surface3ado not oppose each other in the second direction D2.

In the multilayer capacitor C14, the conductor11is located between the second electrode layer E2and the internal electrode7A that is not electrically connected to the second electrode layer E2. Due to the conductor11, the second electrode layer E2is separated from the internal electrode7A that is not electrically connected to the second electrode layer E2. Therefore, an electric field tends not to be generated between the second electrode layer E2and the internal electrode7A that is not electrically connected to the second electrode layer E2. Even in a case where an electric field is generated between the second electrode layer E2and the internal electrode7A that is not electrically connected to the second electrode layer E2, strength of the electric field is small.

The conductor13is located between the second electrode layer E2and the internal electrode9A that is not electrically connected to the second electrode layer E2. Due to the conductor13, the second electrode layer E2is separated from the internal electrode9A that is not electrically connected to the second electrode layer E2. Therefore, an electric field tends not to be generated between the second electrode layer E2and the internal electrode9A that is not electrically connected to the second electrode layer E2. Even in a case where an electric field is generated between the second electrode layer E2and the internal electrode9A that is not electrically connected to the second electrode layer E2, strength of the electric field is small.

Consequently, the multilayer capacitor C14further controls the occurrence of the migration. Therefore, the insulating film21may not include the film portion21b.

In the multilayer capacitor C14, the conductor11includes the portion11aand the portion11b, and the conductor13includes the portion13aand the portion13b.

The portion11aopposes the second electrode layer E2not electrically connected to the internal electrode9A adjacent to the conductor11in the second direction D2, in the second direction D2. The portion11bopposes the second electrode layer E2electrically connected to the internal electrode9A, in the second direction D2.

The portion13aopposes the second electrode layer E2not electrically connected to the internal electrode7A adjacent to the conductor13in the second direction D2, in the second direction D2. The portion13bopposes the second electrode layer E2electrically connected to the internal electrode7A, in the second direction D2.

In the multilayer capacitor C14, the configuration on the one end surface3eside from the center in the first direction D1and the configuration on the other end surface3eside from the center in the first direction D1tend not to be different from each other. Therefore, structural defects tend not to occur in the element body3.

In the multilayer capacitor C14, the end7Ae2overlaps the conductor13(portion13a) when viewed from the second direction D2. Therefore, an electric field further tends not to be generated between the second electrode layer E2and the internal electrode7A that is not electrically connected to the second electrode layer E2. The end9Ae2overlaps the conductor11(portion11a) when viewed from the second direction D2. Therefore, an electric field further tends not to be generated between the second electrode layer E2and the internal electrode9A that is not electrically connected to the second electrode layer E2. Consequently, the multilayer capacitor C14further controls the occurrence of the migration.

Next, a configuration of a multilayer capacitor C15according to a modification of the first embodiment will be described with reference toFIGS.15to17.FIGS.15,16, and17are views illustrating a cross-sectional configuration of a multilayer capacitor according to the modification of the first embodiment. The multilayer capacitor C15according to this modification is generally similar to or the same as the multilayer capacitor C14illustrated inFIGS.12to14. However, this modification is different from the multilayer capacitor C14in the configuration of the conductors11and13. Hereinafter, differences between the multilayer capacitor C14and this modification will be mainly described.

In the multilayer capacitor C15, the portion11aand the portion11bare integrated. The conductor11includes no end exposed to the surface of the element body3. The conductor11is not connected to any of the external electrodes5. The conductor11is not electrically connected to the second electrode layer E2.

The portion13aand the portion13bare integrated. The conductor13includes no end exposed to the surface of the element body3. The conductor13is not connected to any of the external electrodes5. The conductor13is not electrically connected to the second electrode layer E2.

The end7Ae2opposes the second electrode layer E2not electrically connected to the internal electrode7A and disposed on the other side surface3a, in the second direction D2. The end7Ae2is exposed from the conductor13(portion13a) when viewed from the second direction D2.

The end9Ae2opposes the second electrode layer E2not electrically connected to the internal electrode9A and disposed on the one side surface3a, in the second direction D2. The end9Ae2is exposed from the conductor11(portion11a) when viewed from the second direction D2.

In the multilayer capacitor C15, the lengths of the internal electrodes7and9in the second direction D2increase, and then capacitance of the multilayer capacitor can be increased.

Next, a configuration of a multilayer capacitor C16according to a modification of the first embodiment will be described with reference toFIGS.18and19.FIGS.18and19are views illustrating a cross-sectional configuration of a multilayer capacitor according to the modification of the first embodiment. The multilayer capacitor C16according to this modification is generally similar to or the same as the multilayer capacitor C1described above. However, this modification is different from the above-described first embodiment in the configuration of the electrode portions5aand5cand the insulating film21. Hereinafter, differences between the above-described first embodiment and this modification will be mainly described.

In the multilayer capacitor C16, the film portion21ais in direct contact with the third electrode layer E3and the side surface3c. The film portion21ais disposed to indirectly cover the edge E2ceand directly cover the side surface3c. In the electrode portion5c, the film portion21aindirectly covers a part of the second electrode layer E2. The part of the second electrode layer E2indirectly covered with the film portion21aincludes the edge E2ce.

The film portion21bis in direct contact with the third electrode layer E3and the side surface3a. The film portion21bis disposed to indirectly cover the edge E2aeand directly cover the side surface3a. In the electrode portion5a, the film portion21bindirectly covers a part of the second electrode layer E2. The part of the second electrode layer E2indirectly covered with the film portion21bincludes the edge E2ae.

In the multilayer capacitor C16, the second electrode layer E2of the electrode portion5ais formed to cover the entire first electrode layer E1of the electrode portion5a. The second electrode layer E2of the electrode portion5cis formed to cover the entire first electrode layer E1of the electrode portion5c.

Even in the multilayer capacitor C16, metal ions tend not to migrate from the second electrode layer E2of the electrode portion5ceven in a case where the metal ions are generated in the second electrode layer E2of the electrode portion5cdue to an electric field generated between the internal electrodes7and the second electrode layer E2of the electrode portion5cnot electrically connected to the internal electrodes7or an electric field generated between the internal electrodes9and the second electrode layer E2of the electrode portion5cnot electrically connected to the internal electrodes9. The film portion21aregulates migration of the metal ions. Consequently, the multilayer capacitor C16controls the occurrence of the migration.

Metal ions tend not to migrate from the second electrode layer E2of the electrode portion5aeven in a case where the metal ions are generated in the second electrode layer E2of the electrode portion5adue to an electric field generated between the internal electrode7A and the second electrode layer E2of the electrode portion5anot electrically connected to the internal electrode7A or an electric field generated between the internal electrode9A and the second electrode layer E2of the electrode portion5anot electrically connected to the internal electrode9A. The film portion21bregulates migration of the metal ions. Consequently, the multilayer capacitor C16further controls the occurrence of the migration.

Second Embodiment

A configuration of a multilayer capacitor C2according to a second embodiment will be described with reference toFIGS.20to22.FIG.20is a perspective view of the multilayer capacitor according to the second embodiment.FIGS.21and22are views illustrating a cross-sectional configuration of the multilayer capacitor according to the second embodiment. The multilayer capacitor C2is generally similar to or the same as the multilayer capacitor C1. However, the multilayer capacitor C2is different from the multilayer capacitor C1in the configuration of the second electrode layer E2. The multilayer capacitor C2is different from the multilayer capacitor C1in that the insulating film21is not provided. Hereinafter, differences between the multilayer capacitor C1and the multilayer capacitor C2will be mainly described. Also in the present embodiment, an electronic component includes, for example, the multilayer capacitor C2.

As illustrated inFIGS.20to22, the multilayer capacitor C2includes an element body3, a plurality of external electrodes5, a plurality of internal electrodes7, and a plurality of internal electrodes9. The multilayer capacitor C2does not include the insulating film21included in the multilayer capacitor C1. In the present embodiment, the multilayer capacitor C2includes a pair of external electrodes5.

The external electrode5includes a plurality of electrode portions5a,5c, and5e. Each of the electrode portions5aand5cincludes a first electrode layer E1, a second electrode layer E2, and a third electrode layer E3. Each electrode portion5eincludes the first electrode layer E1and the third electrode layer E3.

The second electrode layer E2of the electrode portion5cis located on the side surface3c. Each second electrode layer E2located on the same side surface3cincludes an edge E2ce. On the same side surface3c, the edge E2ceof one second electrode layer E2opposes the edge E2ceof the other second electrode layer E2.

In the electrode portion5c, each second electrode layer E2includes a region E2c1and a region E2c2. The region E2c2is located closer to the edge E2cethan the region E2c1, and includes the edge E2ce. A content of the metal particles in the region E2c2is smaller than a content of the metal particles in the region E2c1. The content of the metal particles in the region E2c2is, for example, less than 30 vol %. The content of the metal particles in the region E2c1is, for example, 30 vol % or more. In the present embodiment, the content of the metal particles in the region E2c2is about 25 vol %, and the content of the metal particles in the region E2c1is about 50 vol %.

The second electrode layer E2of the electrode portion5ais located on the side surface3a. Each second electrode layer E2located on the same side surface3aincludes an edge E2ae. On the same side surface3a, the edge E2aeof one second electrode layer E2opposes the edge E2aeof the other second electrode layer E2.

In the electrode portion5a, each second electrode layer E2includes a region E2a1and a region E2a2. The region E2a2is located closer to the edge E2aethan the region E2a1, and includes the edge E2ae. A content of the metal particles in the region E2a2is smaller than a content of the metal particles in the region E2a1. The content of the metal particles in the region E2a2is, for example, less than 30 vol %. The content of the metal particles in the region E2a1is, for example, 30 vol % or more. In the present embodiment, the content of the metal particles in the region E2a2is about 25 vol %, and the content of the metal particles in the region E2a1is about 50 vol %.

For example, when the region E2c1constitutes a first region, the region E2c2constitutes a second region, the region E2a1constitutes a third region, and the region E2a2constitutes a fourth region. For example, when the content of the metal particles in the region E2c1is a first content, the content of the metal particles in the region E2c2is a second content, the content of the metal particles in the region E2a1is a third content, and the content of the metal particles in the region E2a2is a fourth content.

A width W4of the region E2c2is 5% or more of the width W2, as illustrated inFIG.21. The width W4is the length of the region E2c2in the first direction D1.

A width W5of the region E2a2is 5% or more of the width W2, as illustrated inFIG.22. The width W5is the length of the region E2a2in the first direction D1. The width W5may be the same as the width W4or may be different from the width W4.

In the multilayer capacitor C2, the electrode portion5cincludes the second electrode layer E2. Therefore, the multilayer capacitor C2controls occurrence of cracks in the element body3in the same manner as the multilayer capacitor C1.

In the multilayer capacitor C2, the electrode portion5aincludes the second electrode layer E2. Therefore, the multilayer capacitor C2further controls the occurrence of cracks in the element body3in the same manner as the multilayer capacitor C1.

In the multilayer capacitor C2, the region E2c2constitutes the edge E2ceof the second electrode layer E2included in the electrode portion5c. The content of the metal particles in the region E2c2is smaller than the content of the metal particles in the region E2c1. An amount of metal ions generated in the region E2c2is small, as compared with that in the region E2c1even in a case where the metal ions are generated in the second electrode layer E2of the electrode portion5cdue to an electric field generated between the internal electrodes7and the second electrode layer E2of the electrode portion5cnot electrically connected to which the internal electrodes7or an electric field generated between the internal electrodes9and the second electrode layer E2of the electrode portion5cnot electrically connected to which the internal electrodes9. Therefore, in the multilayer capacitor C2, an amount of metal ions migrating from the second electrode layer E2of the electrode portion5cis small, as compared with that in the configuration in which the second electrode layer E2of the electrode portion5cis the region E2c1. Consequently, the multilayer capacitor C2controls occurrence of migration.

In the multilayer capacitor C2, the region E2a2constitutes the edge E2aeof the second electrode layer E2included in the electrode portion5a. The content of the metal particles in the region E2a2is smaller than the content of the metal particles in the region E2a1. An amount of metal ions generated in the region E2a2is small, as compared with that in the region E2a1even in a case where the metal ions are generated in the second electrode layer E2of the electrode portion5adue to an electric field generated between the internal electrode7A and the second electrode layer E2of the electrode portion5anot electrically connected to the internal electrode7A or an electric field generated between the internal electrode9A and the second electrode layer E2of the electrode portion5anot electrically connected to the internal electrode9A. Therefore, in the multilayer capacitor C2, an amount of metal ions migrating from the second electrode layer E2of the electrode portion5ais small, as compared with that in the configuration in which the second electrode layer E2of the electrode portion5ais the region E2a1. Consequently, the multilayer capacitor C2further controls the occurrence of the migration.

The second electrode layer E2includes the plurality of silver particles. Silver particles tend to cause migration as compared with, for example, copper particles.

The multilayer capacitor C2reliably controls the occurrence of the migration even when the second electrode layer E2includes the plurality of silver particles.

Next, a configuration of a multilayer capacitor C21according to a modification of the second embodiment will be described with reference toFIG.23.FIG.23is a view illustrating a cross-sectional configuration of a multilayer capacitor according to the modification of the second embodiment. The multilayer capacitor C21according to this modification is generally similar to or the same as the multilayer capacitor C2described above. However, this modification is different from the above-described second embodiment in the configuration of the electrode portion5e. Hereinafter, differences between the above-described second embodiment and this modification will be mainly described. This modification is similar to the multilayer capacitor C11illustrated inFIG.7in the configuration of the electrode portion5e.

Each electrode portion5eincludes a first electrode layer E1, a second electrode layer E2, and a third electrode layer E3, as in the multilayer capacitor C11.

The configuration in which the electrode portion5eincludes the second electrode layer E2reduces stress acting on the solder fillet formed on the electrode portion5e. Therefore, the multilayer capacitor C21controls occurrence of solder cracks.

Next, a configuration of a multilayer capacitor C22according to a modification of the second embodiment will be described with reference toFIG.24.FIG.24is a view illustrating a cross-sectional configuration of a multilayer capacitor according to the modification of the second embodiment. The multilayer capacitor C22according to this modification is generally similar to or the same as the multilayer capacitor C2described above. However, this modification is different from the above-described second embodiment in the configuration of the electrode portion5a. Hereinafter, differences between the above-described second embodiment and this modification will be mainly described. This modification is similar to the multilayer capacitor C12illustrated inFIG.8in the configuration of the electrode portion5a.

The electrode portion5amay not include the second electrode layer E2similarly to the electrode portion5aof the multilayer capacitor C12.

In the configuration in which the electrode portion5adoes not include the second electrode layer E2, the second electrode layer E2and the internal electrode7that are not electrically connected to each other do not oppose each other in the second direction D2, and the second electrode layer E2and the internal electrode9that are not electrically connected to each other do not oppose each other in the second direction D2. Therefore, also the multilayer capacitor C22further controls the occurrence of the migration.

Next, a configuration of a multilayer capacitor C23according to a modification of the second embodiment will be described with reference toFIGS.25to27.FIGS.25,26, and27are views illustrating a cross-sectional configuration of a multilayer capacitor according to the modification of the second embodiment. The multilayer capacitor C23according to this modification is generally similar to or the same as the multilayer capacitor C2described above. However, this modification is different from the above-described second embodiment in the configuration of the internal electrodes7A and9A. Hereinafter, differences between the above-described second embodiment and this modification will be mainly described. This modification is similar to the multilayer capacitor C13illustrated inFIGS.9to11in the configuration of the internal electrodes7A and9A.

In the multilayer capacitor C23, the lengths L11and L12are larger than the lengths L21and L22, as in the multilayer capacitor C13. In the multilayer capacitor C23, the length L21is a length in the first direction D1from the reference plane PL1to the edge E2aeof the second electrode layer E2electrically connected to the internal electrode7A, and the length L22is a length in the first direction D1from the reference plane PL2to the edge E2aeof the second electrode layer E2electrically connected to the internal electrode9A. Therefore, the internal electrode9adjacent to the internal electrode7A in the second direction D2and the second electrode layer E2included in the electrode portion5aadjacent to the internal electrode7A in the second direction D2are not electrically connected to each other, but tend not to oppose each other in the second direction D2. The internal electrode7adjacent to the internal electrode9A in the second direction D2and the second electrode layer E2included in the electrode portion5aadjacent to the internal electrode9A in the second direction D2are not electrically connected to each other, but tend not to oppose each other in the second direction D2. An electric field tends not to be generated between the second electrode layer E2and the internal electrode7that are not electrically connected to each other, and between the second electrode layer E2and the internal electrode9that are not electrically connected to each other.

The lengths L11and L12are smaller than the lengths L31and L32. In the multilayer capacitor C23, the length L31is a length in the first direction D1from the reference plane PL1to the edge E2aeof the second electrode layer E2to which the internal electrode7A is not electrically connected, and the length L32is a length in the first direction D1from the reference plane PL2to the edge E2aeof the second electrode layer E2to which the internal electrode9A is not electrically connected. Therefore, the internal electrode7A tends not to oppose the second electrode layer E2included in the electrode portion5anot electrically connected to the internal electrode7A, in the second direction D2, and the internal electrode9A tends not to oppose the second electrode layer E2included in the electrode portion5anot electrically connected to the internal electrode9A, in the second direction D2. An electric field tends not to be generated between the second electrode layer E2and the internal electrode7A that are not electrically connected to each other, and between the second electrode layer E2and the internal electrode9A that are not electrically connected to each other.

Consequently, the multilayer capacitor C23further controls the occurrence of the migration. Therefore, the second electrode layer E2included in the electrode portion5amay not include the region E2a2. Although not illustrated, the second electrode layer E2included in the electrode portion5amay include the region E2a2.

Next, a configuration of a multilayer capacitor C24according to a modification of the second embodiment will be described with reference toFIGS.28to30.FIGS.28,29, and30are views illustrating a cross-sectional configuration of a multilayer capacitor according to the modification of the second embodiment. The multilayer capacitor C24according to this modification is generally similar to or the same as the multilayer capacitor C23illustrated inFIGS.25to27. However, this modification is different from the multilayer capacitor C23in the configuration of the conductors11and13. Hereinafter, differences between the multilayer capacitor C23and this modification will be mainly described. This modification is similar to the multilayer capacitor C14illustrated inFIGS.12to14in the configuration of the conductors11and13.

The multilayer capacitor C24includes a pair of conductors11and13similarly to the multilayer capacitor C14. InFIGS.29and30, for the sake of explanation, the internal electrodes7A and9A and the conductors11and13are intentionally illustrated so as to deviate from each other in the third direction D3. Even in the multilayer capacitor C24, the conductors11and13constitute dummy conductors that tend not to contribute to generation of capacitance.

In the multilayer capacitor C24, similarly to the multilayer capacitor C14, the conductor11is located between the second electrode layer E2and the internal electrode7A that is not electrically connected to the second electrode layer E2. Therefore, even in a case where an electric field is generated between the second electrode layer E2and the internal electrode7A that is not electrically connected to the second electrode layer E2, strength of the electric field is small.

The conductor13is located between the second electrode layer E2and the internal electrode9A that is not electrically connected to the second electrode layer E2. Therefore, even in a case where an electric field is generated between the second electrode layer E2and the internal electrode9A that is not electrically connected to the second electrode layer E2, strength of the electric field is small.

Consequently, the multilayer capacitor C24further controls the occurrence of the migration. Therefore, the second electrode layer E2included in the electrode portion5amay not include the region E2a2. Although not illustrated, the second electrode layer E2included in the electrode portion5amay include the region E2a2.

Next, a configuration of a multilayer capacitor C25according to a modification of the second embodiment will be described with reference toFIGS.31to33.FIGS.31,32, and33are views illustrating a cross-sectional configuration of a multilayer capacitor according to the modification of the second embodiment. The multilayer capacitor C25according to this modification is generally similar to or the same as the multilayer capacitor C24illustrated inFIGS.28to30. However, this modification is different from the multilayer capacitor C24in the configuration of the conductors11and13. Hereinafter, differences between the multilayer capacitor C24and this modification will be mainly described. This modification is similar to the multilayer capacitor C15in the configuration of the conductors11and13.

In the multilayer capacitor C25, the portion11aand the portion11bare integrated. The conductor11includes no end exposed to the surface of the element body3. The conductor11is not connected to any of the external electrodes5. The conductor11is not electrically connected to the second electrode layer E2.

The portion13aand the portion13bare integrated. The conductor13includes no end exposed to the surface of the element body3. The conductor13is not connected to any of the external electrodes5. The conductor13is not electrically connected to the second electrode layer E2.

In the multilayer capacitor C25, the second electrode layer E2included in the electrode portion5amay not include the region E2a2. Although not illustrated, the second electrode layer E2included in the electrode portion5amay include the region E2a2.

Although the embodiment and modifications of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not necessarily limited to the embodiment and modifications, and the embodiment can be variously changed without departing from the scope of the invention.

In each of the modifications illustrated inFIGS.8to19and24to33, the electrode portion5emay include the second electrode layer E2, as in the modifications illustrated inFIGS.7and23.

The multilayer capacitors C13to C16and C23to C25may not include the insulating film21.

In the present embodiments and modifications, electronic components are the multilayer capacitors C1, C11to C16, C2, and C21to C25. However, applicable electronic component is not limited to the multilayer capacitor. The applicable electronic component includes, for example, a multilayer electronic component such as a multilayer inductor, a multilayer varistor, a multilayer piezoelectric actuator, a multilayer thermistor, or a multilayer composite component, or electronic components other than the multilayer electronic components.