General Conditioning Principles
In the case of water-filled capacitors, the buildup of white or silver powder on the metal electrodes after prolonged use is actually a desired effect for certain applications. This powder formation is typically the result of corrosion or oxidation of the metal electrode in the presence of dissolved oxygen and chlorine.
The 304L stainless steel electrodes commonly used in water-filled capacitors are susceptible to corrosion and oxidation, which can result in the formation of oxides and chlorides on the metal surface. This buildup of white or silver powder is often an indication that the metal electrode is becoming more resistive and less conductive, which can ultimately result in a decrease in capacitance.
However, in certain applications, this decrease in capacitance can be beneficial. For example, in energy storage applications, a decrease in capacitance can be used to limit the amount of current that flows through the capacitor, which can help to prevent damage to the capacitor and the surrounding circuitry.
In addition, the formation of white or silver powder can also affect the properties of the metal-semiconductor junction, which can result in rectification properties and the ability to convert AC power to DC power. This effect is particularly useful in power conversion applications, where the ability to convert between AC and DC power is critical.
The buildup of white or silver powder on the metal electrodes in water-filled capacitors can be a desired effect for certain applications. This effect is typically the result of corrosion or oxidation of the metal electrode, which can decrease capacitance and increase resistance. However, in some cases, this decrease in capacitance and increase in resistance can be beneficial for energy storage and power conversion applications.
It is theoretically possible for Cr2O3 to be produced from natural water in a capacitor when exposed to electric fields at varying frequencies, but it would depend on a variety of factors such as the composition of the water, the materials used in the capacitor, and the specific frequencies and amplitudes of the electric fields applied.
Chromium is a common impurity in natural water, and under certain conditions, it can react with oxygen and water to form chromium oxide (Cr2O3). The formation of Cr2O3 in a capacitor would likely require the presence of chromium ions in the water and an electric field strong enough to induce chemical reactions at the metal-water interface.
The specific frequencies and amplitudes of the electric fields applied could also play a role in the formation of Cr2O3. For example, higher frequencies and amplitudes could increase the likelihood of chemical reactions occurring, while lower frequencies and amplitudes could have little to no effect.
The materials used in the capacitor could also affect the formation of Cr2O3. For example, if the electrodes are made of a material that readily reacts with chromium, such as iron or nickel, then the formation of Cr2O3 could be more likely.
See Wikipedia for more information on Cr2O3.