Multilayer ceramic capacitor

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority to Japanese Patent Application No. 2022-192015 filed on Nov. 30, 2022 and is a Continuation Application of PCT Application No. PCT/JP2023/34071 filed on Sep. 20, 2023. The entire contents of each application are hereby incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] The present invention relates to multilayer ceramic electronic components, and more particularly, to multilayer ceramic capacitors.

[0003] Multilayer ceramic capacitors are conventionally known as multilayer ceramic electronic components. Generally, multilayer ceramic capacitors each include a configuration including a multilayer body which is a fired body in which a plurality of dielectric layers made of ceramic and internal electrode layers are alternately laminated, and external electrodes provided on both end surfaces of the multilayer body, and each include a desired capacitance according to the number of laminated layers and the thickness of each of the dielectric layers. Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2006-286860 discloses that step absorption layers are provided to eliminate the difference in steps generated by the internal electrode layers.

[0004] However, in practice, the internal electrode layers are often curved toward the first main surface or the second main surface, and the degree of curvature tends to be greater in the direction away from the curved surface. Therefore, when the step absorption layers are provided on the same plane of each of the internal electrode layers as described in Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2006-286860, the step absorption layers are provided also on portions that are only curved to an extent that does not affect structural defects. As a result, a new structural defect may occur, and the cost of the step absorbing layer may increase.

[0005] Example embodiments of the present invention provide multilayer ceramic electronic components that are each able to reduce cost and reduce or prevent structural defects by providing an appropriate amount of step absorption layers at appropriate locations.

[0006] An example embodiment of the present invention provides a multilayer ceramic electronic component including a multilayer body including a plurality of laminated ceramic layers, a first main surface and a second main surface opposed to each other in a height direction, a first lateral surface and a second lateral surface opposed to each other in a width direction orthogonal or substantially orthogonal to the height direction, a first end surface and a second end surface opposed to each other in a length direction orthogonal or substantially orthogonal to the height direction and the width direction, a plurality of first internal electrode layers that are each alternately laminated with a respective one of the plurality of ceramic layers and each exposed at the first end surface, a plurality of second internal electrode layers that are each alternately laminated with a respective one of the plurality of ceramic layers and each exposed at the second end surface, a plurality of first step layers that are each provided on a same plane as a respective one of the plurality of second internal electrode layers and each exposed at the first end surface, and a plurality of second step layers that are each provided on a same plane as a respective one of the plurality of first internal electrode layers and each exposed at the second end surface, a first external electrode on the first end surface, and a second external electrode on the second end surface, in which each of the plurality of first step layers and a corresponding one of the plurality of second internal electrode layers have a distance therebetween in the length direction that increases closer to the first main surface than the second main surface, and each of the plurality of second step layers and a corresponding one of the plurality of first internal electrode layers have a distance therebetween that increases closer to the first main surface than the second main surface.

[0007] Another example embodiment of the present invention provides a multilayer ceramic electronic component including a multilayer body including a plurality of laminated ceramic layers, a first main surface and a second main surface opposed to each other in a height direction, a first lateral surface and a second lateral surface opposed to each other in a width direction orthogonal or substantially orthogonal to the height direction, a first end surface and a second end surface opposed to each other in a length direction orthogonal or substantially orthogonal to the height direction and the width direction, a plurality of end surface-exposed electrode layers that are each alternately laminated with a respective one of the plurality of ceramic layers, each exposed at the first end surface and the second end surface, and each functioning as an internal electrode layer, a plurality of lateral surface-exposed electrode layers that are each alternately laminated with a respective one of the plurality of ceramic layers, each exposed at the first lateral surface and the second lateral surface, and each functioning as an internal electrode layer, a plurality of lateral surface step layers that are each provided on a same plane as a respective one of the plurality of end surface-exposed electrode layers and each exposed at the first lateral surface and the second lateral surface, a plurality of end surface step layers that are each provided on a same plane as a respective one of the plurality of lateral surface-exposed electrode layers and each exposed at the first end surface and the second end surface, first external electrodes respectively on the first end surface and the second end surface, and second external electrodes respectively on the first lateral surface and the second lateral surface, in which each of the plurality of lateral surface step layers and a corresponding one of the plurality of end surface-exposed electrode layers have a distance therebetween in the width direction that increases closer to the first main surface than the second main surface, and each of the plurality of end surface step layers and a corresponding one of the plurality of lateral surface-exposed electrode layers have a distance therebetween in the length direction that increases closer to the first main surface than the second main surface.

[0008] According to example embodiments of the present invention, it is possible to provide multilayer ceramic electronic components that are each able to easily make the surface of the multilayer body flatter.

[0009] The above and other elements, features, steps, characteristics and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description of the example embodiments with reference to the attached drawings.

[0021] Hereinafter, multilayer ceramic electronic components according to example embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the following description, a case will be described as an example where a multilayer ceramic electronic component 1 is a multilayer ceramic capacitor.

[0022] The multilayer ceramic electronic component 1 of the first example embodiment will be described.

Outer Shape of Multilayer Ceramic Electronic Component

[0023] The outline of the appearance of the multilayer ceramic electronic component 1 will be described with reference to FIG. 1. FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the multilayer ceramic electronic component 1 of the present example embodiment. The multilayer ceramic electronic component 1 includes a multilayer body 2 and external electrodes 20.

Definitions of Directions

[0024] The drawings show the L direction, the W direction, and the T direction as appropriate. The L direction is the length direction of the multilayer ceramic electronic component 1. The W direction is the width direction of the multilayer ceramic electronic component 1. The T direction is the height direction of the multilayer ceramic electronic component 1. Thus, the cross section shown in FIG. 2 is referred to as an LT cross section, and the cross section shown in FIG. 3 is referred to as a WT cross section. The length direction L, the width direction W, and the height direction T do not necessarily have to be orthogonal to each other. The length direction L, the width direction W, and the height direction T may intersect each other.

Outer Shape of Multilayer Body

[0025] The multilayer body 2 includes a rectangular or substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape. The multilayer body 2 includes two main surfaces 61, two end surfaces 62, and two lateral surfaces 63. The main surfaces 61 are opposed to each other in the height direction T. The end surfaces 62 are opposed to each other in the length direction L. The lateral surfaces 63 are opposed to each other in the width direction W. One of the two main surfaces 61 is a first main surface 61a and the other is a second main surface 61b. One of the two end surfaces 62 is a first end surface 62a and the other is a second end surface 62b. One of the two lateral surfaces 63 is a first lateral surface 63a, and the other lateral surface is a second lateral surface 63b. FIG. 1 shows the first main surface 61a and the first lateral surface 63a.

[0026] Ridge portions and corner portions of the multilayer body 2 are preferably rounded. Each of the ridge portions is a portion where two surfaces of the multilayer body 2 intersect. Each of the corner portions is a portion where three surfaces of the multilayer body 2 intersect. The size of the multilayer body 2 is not particularly limited.

Configuration of Multilayer Body

[0027] The multilayer body 2 includes a plurality of ceramic layers 4 and a plurality of internal electrode layers 10. Hereinafter, the configuration of the multilayer body 2 will be described with reference to a cross-sectional view of the multilayer body 2.

Internal Configuration of Multilayer Body (LT Cross Section)

[0028] The internal configuration of the multilayer body 2 will be described with reference to FIG. 2. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line I-I of the multilayer ceramic electronic component 1 shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 2 shows an LT cross section of the multilayer ceramic electronic component 1. The multilayer body 2 includes the plurality of ceramic layers 4 and the plurality of internal electrode layers 10. The plurality of ceramic layers 4 and the plurality of internal electrode layers 10 are laminated on each other in the height direction T.

Inner Layer Portion and Outer Layer Portion

[0029] The multilayer body 2 is divided into an inner layer portion 53 and two outer layer portions 54 in the height direction T. The outer layer portions 54 include a first outer layer portion 54a and a second outer layer portion 54b. The first outer layer portion 54a and the second outer layer portion 54b sandwich the inner layer portion 53 in the height direction T.

[0030] The inner layer portion 53 includes a portion of the plurality of ceramic layers 4 and the plurality of internal electrode layers 10. The inner layer portion 53 includes the plurality of internal electrode layers 10 that are opposed to each other with the ceramic layer 4 interposed therebetween. Therefore, a capacitance is generated in the inner layer portion 53. Therefore, the inner layer portion 53 substantially functions as a capacitor in the multilayer body 2.

[0031] The first outer layer portion 54a is adjacent to the first main surface 61a of the multilayer body 2. Among the outer layer portions, the second outer layer portion 54b is adjacent to the second main surface 61b of the multilayer body 2. Specifically, the first outer layer portion 54a is located between the first main surface 61a and an internal electrode layer 10 closest to the first main surface 61a among the plurality of internal electrode layers 10. The second outer layer portion 54b is located between the second main surface 61b and an internal electrode layer 10 closest to the second main surface 61b among the plurality of internal electrode layers 10. The first outer layer portion 54a and the second outer layer portion 54b do not include the internal electrode layers 10. The first outer layer portion 54a and the second outer layer portion 54b include the ceramic layers 4 except for the ceramic layers 4 for the inner layer portion 53 among the plurality of ceramic layers 4. Each of the first outer layer portion 54a and the second outer layer portion 54b functions as a protective layer of the inner layer portion 53.

Ceramic Layer

[0032] The ceramic layers 4 can be classified into a ceramic layer 4 provided in the inner layer portion 53 and a ceramic layer 4 provided in the outer layer portion 54. The ceramic layers 4 in the inner layer portion 53 are referred to as inner ceramic layers 4a. The ceramic layer 4 in each of the outer layer portions 54 is referred to as an outer ceramic layer 4b.

Number of Ceramic Layers

[0033] The ceramic layers 4 laminated in the multilayer body 2 may include, for example, 5 layers or more and 2000 layers or less.

Material of Ceramic Layer

[0034] As a material of the ceramic layer 4, for example, a dielectric ceramic made of a main component such as BaTiO₃, CaTiO₃, SrTiO₃, or CaZrO₃ can be used. Further, a material obtained by adding a subcomponent such as a Mn compound, an Fe compound, a Cr compound, a Co compound, or a Ni compound to these main components may be used.

[0035] When a piezoelectric ceramic is used for the multilayer body 2, the multilayer ceramic electronic component 1 functions as a ceramic piezoelectric element. Specific examples of the piezoelectric ceramic material include PZT (lead zirconate titanate) based ceramic materials.

[0036] When a semiconductor ceramic is used for the multilayer body 2, the multilayer ceramic electronic component 1 functions as a thermistor element. Specific examples of the semiconductor ceramic material include spinel-based ceramic materials.

[0037] When a magnetic ceramic is used for the multilayer body, the multilayer ceramic electronic component 1 functions as an inductor element. When the multilayer ceramic electronic component 1 functions as an inductor element, the internal electrode layer is a coil conductor, for example. Specific examples of the magnetic ceramic material include ferrite ceramic materials. Thickness of Ceramic Layer

[0038] The thickness of the ceramic layer 4 may be about 10 μm or less, for example.

Internal Electrode Layer

[0039] The internal electrode layers 10 can be classified into first internal electrode layers 10a and second internal electrode layers 10b. Each of the first internal electrode layers 10a is an internal electrode layer 10 connected to the first external electrode 20a. Each of the second internal electrode layers 10b is an internal electrode layer 10 connected to the second external electrode 20b. Each of the first internal electrode layers 10a extends from the first end surface 62a toward the second end surface 62b. Each of the second internal electrode layers 10b extends from the second end surface 62b toward the first end surface 62a.

Counter Portion and Extension Portion

[0040] Each of the first internal electrode layers 10a and each of the second internal electrode layers 10b have a counter portion 11 and an extension portion 12. The counter portion 11 in each of the internal electrode layers 10 is a portion where each of the first internal electrode layers 10a and each of the second internal electrode layers 10b are opposed to each other in the height direction T. The extension portion 12 in each of the internal electrode layers 10 is a portion extending from the counter portion 11 toward the first end surface 62a or toward the second end surface 62b of the multilayer body 2.

[0041] The counter portion 11 of each of the first internal electrode layers 10a is referred to as a first counter portion 11a. The extension portion 12 of each of the first internal electrode layers 10a is referred to as a first extension portion 12a. Each of the first extension portions 12a extends from the first counter portion 11a to the first end surface 62a of the multilayer body 2.

[0042] Similarly, the counter portion 11 of each of the second internal electrode layers 10b is referred to as a second counter portion 11b. The extension portion 12 of each of the second internal electrode layers 10b is referred to as a second extension portion 12b. Each of the second extension portions 12b extends from the second counter portion 11b toward the second end surface 62b of the multilayer body 2.

Number of Internal Electrode Layers

[0043] The internal electrode layers 10 may be, for example, 10 layers or more and 2000 layers or less. The number of internal electrode layers 10 refers to the number of layers including the number of first internal electrode layers 10a and the number of second internal electrode layers 10b.

Thickness of Internal Electrode Layer

[0044] The thickness of each of the internal electrode layers 10 may be, for example, about 0.1 μm or more and about 5.0 μm or less, preferably about 0.2 μm or more and about 2.0 μm or less. When the thickness of each of the internal electrode layers 10 is about 0.5 μm or more, the plating film tends to grow when the metal layer of the external electrode 20 is formed by plating.

Material of Internal Electrode Layer

[0045] Examples of the material of each of the internal electrode layers 10 include metals such as Ni, Cu, Ag, Pd, and Au, alloys of Ni and Cu, alloys of Ag and Pd, and the like. In addition, the material of the internal electrode layer 10 may include dielectric particles having the same composition as the ceramic included in the ceramic layer 4.

Electrode Counter Portion

[0046] The segmentation in the length direction L of the multilayer body 2 will be described. The multilayer body 2 can be divided into an electrode counter portion 50 and L gaps 51 in the length direction L. The electrode counter portion 50 in the segmentation in the length direction L is referred to as an L counter portion 50a. The L gaps 51 include a first L gap 51a and a second L gap 51b.

[0047] The L counter portion 50a corresponds to a portion where each of the first internal electrode layers 10a and each of the second internal electrode layers 10b are opposed to each other in the height direction T. A capacitance is generated in the L counter portion 50a.

L Gap

[0048] Each of the L gaps 51 is a portion where the first internal electrode layers 10a and the second internal electrode layers 10b in the length direction L of the multilayer body 2 are not opposed to each other in the height direction T. Of the L gaps 51, the first L gap 51a is between the L counter portion 50a and the first end surface 62a. The second L gap 51b is between the L counter portion 50a and the second end surface 62b.

[0049] In the first L gap 51a, the first internal electrode layers 10a are provided in the height direction T, but the second internal electrode layers 10b are not provided. In the second L gap 51b, the second internal electrode layers 10b are provided in the height direction T, but the first internal electrode layers 10a are not provided.

[0050] The first L gap 51a functions as an extension portion of each of the first counter portions 11a toward the first end surface 62a. The second L gap 51b functions as an extension portion of each of the second counter portions 11b toward the second end surface 62b.

[0051] The length of each of the L gaps 51 in the length direction L can be, for example, about 10% or more and about 30% or less the length of the multilayer body 2 in the length direction L.

External Electrode

[0052] The external electrodes 20 include a first external electrode 20a and a second external electrode 20b.

First External Electrode

[0053] The first external electrode 20a is an external electrode 20 on the first end surface 62a of the multilayer body 2. The first external electrode 20a is electrically connected to the first internal electrode layers 10a.

Second External Electrode

[0054] The second external electrode 20b is an external electrode 20 on the second end surface 62b of the multilayer body 2. The second external electrode 20b is electrically connected to the second internal electrode layers 10b.

External Electrode on Each Surface

[0055] Each of the external electrodes 20 extends from one end surface 62 to a portion of the two main surfaces 61 and to a portion of the two lateral surfaces 63.

Layer Configuration of External Electrode

[0056] The layer configuration of the external electrodes 20 will be described with reference to FIG. 2. The external electrodes 20 include an base layer 21 and a plated layer 23. The plated layer 23 includes an inner plated layer 23a and a surface plated layer 23b. These layers are arranged in the order of the base layer 21, the inner plated layer 23a, and the surface plated layer 23b from the end surface 62 of the multilayer body 2.

Base Layer

[0057] The base layer 21 is on the end surface 62 of the multilayer body 2, and covers the end surface 62. The base layer 21 extends from the end surface 62 to a portion of the main surface 61 and a portion of the lateral surface 63.

Fired Layer

[0058] The base layer 21 is configured as a fired layer. The fired layer includes a glass component and a metal. The glass component includes at least one selected from B, Si, Ba, Mg, Al, Li, and the like. Examples of the metal include at least one selected from Cu, Ni, Ag, Pd, Ag—Pd alloy, and Au. The fired layer may be a plurality of layers.

Plated Layer

[0059] The plated layer 23 on the base layer 21 will be described. As described above, in the present example embodiment, the plated layer 23 includes the inner plated layer 23a and the surface plated layer 23b. When the plated layer 23 includes two layers, the Ni plated layer and the Sn plated layer are preferably provided in this order from the lower layer. That is, the inner plated layer 23a is a Ni plated layer, and the surface plated layer 23b is a Sn plated layer. When the plated layer 23 includes three layers, the Sn plated layer, the Ni plated layer, and the Sn plated layer are preferably provided in this order from the lower layer.

[0060] The Ni plated layer can prevent the base layer 21 from being eroded by solder when the multilayer ceramic electronic component 1 is mounted. The Sn plated layer improves wettability of solder when mounting the multilayer ceramic electronic component 1 and facilitates mounting. Therefore, by using the Sn plated layer as the surface plated layer 23b, the wettability of solder to the external electrode 20 can be improved. The thickness per plated layer is preferably about 3 μm or more and about 9 μm or less, for example.

Internal Configuration of Multilayer Body (WT Cross Section)

[0061] The internal configuration of the multilayer body 2 will be described with reference to FIG. 3. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line II-II of the multilayer ceramic electronic component 1 shown in FIG. 1. The multilayer body 2 is divided into an electrode counter portion 50 and W gaps 52 in the width direction W. The electrode counter portion 50 in the segmentation in the width direction W is referred to as a W counter portion 50b. The W gaps 52 include a first W gap 52a and a second W gap 52b.

[0062] The W counter portion 50b is a portion where the internal electrode layers 10 are opposed to each other in the height direction T. Each of the W gaps 52 is a portion where none of the first internal electrode layers 10a and the second internal electrode layers 10b are provided in the height direction T in the width direction W.

[0063] Of the W gaps 52, the first W gap 52a is between the W counter portion 50b and the first lateral surface 63a in the width direction W of the multilayer body 2. The second W gap 52b is between the W counter portion 50b and the second lateral surface 63b.

[0064] The first W gap 52a and the second W gap 52b sandwich the W counter portion 50b. Each of the first W gap 52a and the second W gap 52b functions as a protective layer of the internal electrode layers 10.

[0065] The length of each of the W gaps 52 in the width direction W may be, for example, about 20% or more and about 30% or less the length of the multilayer body 2 in the width direction W. The length of each of the W gaps 52 in the width direction W may be, for example, about 5 μm or more and about 50 μm or less.

Size of Multilayer Ceramic Electronic Component

[0066] The size of the multilayer ceramic electronic component 1 is not particularly limited. The size of the multilayer ceramic electronic component 1 can be, for example, as follows. The dimension in the length direction L of the multilayer ceramic electronic component 1 including the multilayer body 2 and the external electrodes 20 is defined as an L dimension. The L dimension is preferably about 0.25 mm or more and about 1.0 mm or less, for example. The dimension in the height direction T of the multilayer ceramic electronic component 1 including the multilayer body 2 and the external electrode 20 is defined as a T dimension. The T dimension is preferably about 0.125 mm or more and about 0.5 mm or less, for example. The dimension in the width direction W of the multilayer ceramic electronic component 1 including the multilayer body 2 and the external electrode 20 is defined as a W dimension. The dimension W is preferably about 0.125 mm or more and about 0.5 mm or less, for example.

Step Layer

[0067] Step layers 5 are provided in the multilayer ceramic electronic component 1 of the present example embodiment. The dimension of the multilayer body 2 in the height direction T is preferably small with respect to a difference between the electrode counter portion 50 and each of the L gaps 51. However, in the inner layer portion 53, the dimension in the height direction T is likely to be different between the electrode counter portion 50 and each of the L gaps 51. The ceramic layers 4 and the internal electrode layers 10 are laminated in the electrode counter portion 50. On the other hand, only the ceramic layers 4 are laminated in each of the L gaps 51. The internal electrode layers 10 are not laminated in each of the L gaps 51. Therefore, the dimension in the height direction T is likely to be different between the electrode counter portion 50 and each of the L gaps 51.

[0068] Therefore, in order to reduce the difference in dimension in the height direction T between the electrode counter portion 50 and each of the L gaps 51, the additional ceramic layer 4 is provided in the each of the L gaps 51. This additional ceramic layers 4 is referred to as the step layer 5. The step layer 5 preferably includes the same component as the ceramic layers 4. However, the components of the ceramic layer 4 are not limited thereto.

Arrangement of Step Layer

[0069] The arrangement of the step layers 5 in the multilayer ceramic electronic component 1 of the present example embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 4. FIG. 4 is an LT cross-sectional view of the multilayer body 2 in the multilayer ceramic electronic component 1 of the present example embodiment. FIG. 4 shows a cross section of the multilayer body 2 at a position corresponding to the line I-I in FIG. 1. Each of the step layers 5 is provided between a tip E in the length direction L of the internal electrode layer 10 and the end surface 62. The step layers 5 include a first step layer 5a and a second step layer 5b.

First Step Layer

[0070] The first step layer 5a is provided on the same plane as the second internal electrode layer 10b. The tip E adjacent to the first end surface 62a in the length direction L of the second internal electrode layer 10b is referred to as a tip E1. The first step layer 5a is provided between the tip E1 and the first end surface 62a in the length direction L. The first step layer 5a is exposed at the first end surface 62a.

Second Step Layer

[0071] The second step layer 5b is provided on the same plane as the first internal electrode layer 10a. The tip E adjacent to the second end surface 62b in the length direction L of the first internal electrode layer 10a is referred to as a tip E2. The second step layer 5b is provided between the tip E2 and the second end surface 62b in the length direction L. The second step layer 5b is exposed at the second end surface 62b.

[0072] As described above, the plurality of internal electrode layers 10 are laminated in the multilayer body 2. The first step layer 5a and the second step layer 5b can be provided for each internal electrode layer 10. Therefore, a plurality of first step layers 5a and a plurality of second step layers 5b are provided in one multilayer body 2. FIG. 4 shows first step layers 5a and second step layers 5b, respectively, for two layers. This is because FIG. 4 is merely a schematic diagram for explanation. Therefore, the number of layers of the multilayer ceramic capacitor is not limited to the number of layers shown in FIG. 4.

Thickness of Step Layer

[0073] The dimension in the height direction T of each of the step layers 5 is defined as the thickness of the step layer 5.

Thickness Variation

[0074] Among the plurality of first step layers 5a, the thickness of each of the first step layers 5a is larger in the first step layers 5a closer to the first main surface 61a than in the first step layers 5a closer to the second main surface 61b, for example. The same applies to the second step layers 5b. Among the plurality of second step layers 5b, the thickness of each of the second step layers 5b is larger in the second step layers 5b closer to the first main surface 61a than in the second step layers 5b closer to the second main surface 61b.

[0075] FIG. 4 shows the thickness of each of the step layers 5 as H. FIG. 4 shows two first step layers 5a and two second step layers 5b. For the two first step layers 5a, the thickness of the first step layer 5a closer to the first main surface 61a is defined as H2, and the thickness of the first step layer 5a closer to the second main surface 61b is defined as H4. The thickness H2 is larger than the thickness H4, for example.

[0076] The same applies to the second step layers 5b. For the two second step layers 5b, the thickness of the second step layer 5b closer to the first main surface 61a is defined as H1, and the thickness of the second step layer 5b closer to the second main surface 61b is defined as H3. The thickness H1 is larger than the thickness H3.

[0077] As described above, in the multilayer ceramic electronic component 1 of the present example embodiment, the thickness of the ceramic layer 4 in the height direction T between the internal electrode layers 10 connected to the same external electrode 20 increases toward the first main surface 61a.

[0078] When the multilayer body 2 is manufactured, more bending of each layer tends to occur at the end of the lamination than at the start of the lamination due to the presence or absence of the internal electrode layer 10. In other words, the effect of the step difference due to the presence or absence of the internal electrode layer 10 is greater at the end of the lamination. Here, the start of the lamination corresponds to the side of the second main surface 61b. The end of the lamination corresponds to the side of the first main surface 61a. In the multilayer ceramic electronic component 1 of the present example embodiment, thicker step layers 5 are provided at the end of the lamination. With such a configuration, it is possible for the multilayer ceramic electronic component 1 to lower the degree of curvature of the multilayer body 2.

[0079] Further, the step layer 5 may not be formed at the start of the lamination. That is, in the height direction T of the multilayer body 2, the step layer 5 may be partially formed on a portion of the multilayer body 2. This makes it possible to more effectively reduce or prevent the generation of step difference in the multilayer body 2.

Comparison between Step Layer and Internal Electrode Layer

[0080] Next, the relationship between the thickness H of the step layer 5 and the thickness of the internal electrode layer 10 will be described. FIG. 4 shows the thickness of each of the internal electrode layers 10 as K. In the present example embodiment, the thickness H of each of the step layers 5 is about 20% or more and about 120% or less of the thickness K of each of the internal electrode layers 10, for example. Specifically, the thickness of each of the first step layers 5a is about 20% or more and about 120% or less of the thickness of each of the second internal electrode layers 10b, for example. Similarly, the thickness of each of the second step layers 5b is about 20% or more and about 120% or less of the thickness of each of the first internal electrode layers 10a, for example. In the example shown in FIG. 4, the thicknesses of the two first step layers 5a are a thickness H2 and a thickness H4. The thickness of each of the second internal electrode layers 10b is denoted by K2 in FIG. 4. The thickness H2 and the thickness H4 are about 20% or more and about 120% or less of the thickness K2. The same applies to the second step layers 5b, for example. The thicknesses of the two second step layers 5b shown in FIG. 4 are a thickness H1 and a thickness H3. The thickness of each of the first internal electrode layers 10a is denoted by K1 in FIG. 4. The thickness H1 and the thickness H3 are about 20% or more and about 120% or less of the thickness K1, for example.

Arrangement in Length Direction

[0081] The configuration of the step layers 5 in the height direction T has been described above. Next, the arrangement of the step layers 5 in the length direction L will be described.

End Surface Side

[0082] Each of the step layers 5 is exposed at the end surface 62. Specifically, each of the first step layers 5a is exposed at the first end surface 62a. Further, each of the second step layers 5b is exposed at the second end surface 62b.

Internal Electrode Side

[0083] The end of each of the step layers 5 opposite to the end exposed at the end surface 62 in the length direction L is in contact with the internal electrode layer 10 of the same layer as the step layer 5 at the tip E of the internal electrode layer 10. The tip E of each of the internal electrode layers 10 indicates an end of the internal electrode layer 10 opposite to the end exposed at the end surface 62 in the length direction L. The tip E of each of the second internal electrode layers 10b adjacent to the first end surface 62a is referred to as a tip E1. Each of the first step layers 5a is in contact with the second internal electrode layer 10b at the tip E1 of the second internal electrode layer 10b. Similarly, the tip E of each of the first internal electrode layers 10a adjacent to the second end surface 62b is referred to as a tip E2. Each of the second step layers 5b is in contact with the first internal electrode layer 10a at the tip E2 of the first internal electrode layer 10a.

L-Direction End Portion

[0084] The L-direction end portion 47 indicates a region of about 0 μm or more and about 60 μm or less from the end of each of the internal electrode layers 10 in the direction L toward the end surface 62 to which each of the internal electrode layers 10 is connected, for example. That is, D1 shown in FIG. 4 is about 0 μm or more and about 60 μm or less, for example.

[0085] Here, the thickness of the ceramic layer 4 and the step layer 5 between the first internal electrode layer 10a and the first internal electrode layer 10a adjacent to the first main surface 61a is defined as D2. Further, the thickness of the ceramic layer 4 and the step layer 5 between the first internal electrode layer 10a and the first internal electrode layer 10a adjacent to the second main surface 61b is defined as D3. D2 is larger than D3. D2 increases as it approaches the first main surface.

Coverage Ratio

[0086] The coverage ratio of the internal electrode layer 10 will be described. The coverage ratio of the L-direction end portion 47 of each of the internal electrode layers 10 is lower than the coverage ratio of the counter portion 11 of each of the internal electrode layers 10. Specifically, the coverage ratio of the L-direction end portion 47 of each of the first internal electrode layers 10a is lower than the coverage ratio of the first counter portion 11a of each of the first internal electrode layers 10a. The same applies to each of the second internal electrode layers 10b, and the coverage ratio of the L-direction end portion 47 of each of the second internal electrode layers 10b is lower than the coverage ratio of the second counter portion 11b of each of the second internal electrode layer 10b.

[0087] A second example embodiment of the multilayer ceramic electronic component 1 of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 5 and 6. FIG. 5 is an LT cross-sectional view of the multilayer body 2 according to the second example embodiment. FIG. 5 is a diagram corresponding to FIG. 4 in the first example embodiment. FIG. 6 is an LT cross-sectional view of a portion of the multilayer ceramic electronic component 1 of the second example embodiment. The following description focuses on differences from the first example embodiment. In the first example embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4, the length of each of the step layers 5 in the height direction T varies depending on the internal electrode layers 10. On the contrary, in the second example embodiment, as shown in FIG. 5, the length of each of the step layers 5 in the length direction L varies depending on the internal electrode layers 10.

Distance between Step Layer and Internal Electrode Layer

[0088] The distance between the step layer 5 and the internal electrode layer 10 in the length direction L will be described. Among the two ends of the step layers 5 in the length direction L, the end on the side not exposed to the end surface 62 is defined as an inner end Q of each of the step layers 5. The distance in the length direction L between the tip E of each the internal electrode layers 10 and the inner end Q of each of the step layers 5 provided in the same layer as the internal electrode layer 10 is defined as J. The distance J is a distance in the length direction L between the step layer 5 and the internal electrode layer 10.

[0089] The distance J in the length direction L between the step layer 5 and the internal electrode layer 10 increases when the internal electrode layers 10 closer to the first main surface 61a than the second main surface 61b. Specifically, the distance J in the length direction L between the first step layer 5a and the second internal electrode layer 10b is greater than the distance J in the length direction L between the first step layer 5a and the second internal electrode layer 10b closer to the first main surface 61a than the second main surface 61b. Similarly, the distance J in the length direction L between the second step layer 5b and the first internal electrode layer 10a is greater than the distance J in the length direction L between the second step layer 5b and the first internal electrode layer 10a closer to the first main surface 61a than the second main surface 61b.

[0090] FIG. 5 shows two first step layers 5a and two second step layers 5b. For the two first step layers 5a, the distance J between the first step layer 5a and the second internal electrode layer 10b in the length direction L is defined as a distance J2 for the first step layer 5a closer to the first main surface 61a than the second main surface 61b, and as a distance J4 for the first step layer 5a closer to the second main surface 61b than the first main surface 61a. The distance J2 is greater than the distance J4.

[0091] The same applies to the second step layer 5b. For the two second step layers 5b, the distance J between the second step layer 5b and the first internal electrode layer 10a in the length direction L is defined as a distance J1 for the second step layer 5b closer to the first main surface 61a than the second main surface 61b, and as a distance J3 for the second step layer 5b closer to the second main surface 61b than the first main surface 61a. The distance J1 is greater than the distance J3.

[0092] As described above, in the multilayer ceramic electronic component 1 of the present example embodiment, the length of the step layer 5 decreases as it approaches the first main surface 61a.

[0093] When the multilayer body 2 is manufactured, more bending of each layer tends to occur at the end of the lamination than at the start of the lamination due to the presence or absence of the internal electrode layer 10. In other words, the effect of the step difference due to the presence or absence of the internal electrode layer 10 is greater at the end of the lamination. At the end of the lamination, the bending of each of the layers starts at points closer to the middle portion of the multilayer body in the direction L than the end surface. In the multilayer ceramic electronic component 1 of the present example embodiment, the length of the step layer 5 from the end surface 62 is shorter at the end of the lamination than at the start of the lamination. With such a configuration, it is possible for the multilayer ceramic electronic component 1 to lower the degree of curvature of the multilayer body 2. Further, it is possible to reduce or prevent the overlap between the internal electrode layer 10 and the step layer 5 in the height direction T and improve the reliability of the multilayer ceramic electronic component 1.

Length Ratio of Step Layer 5 to L Gap

[0094] The ratio of the length in the length direction L between the step layer 5 and the L gap 51 will be described. In FIG. 5, the length in the length direction L of the step layer 5 is defined as S. The length of each of the L gaps 51 in the length direction L is defined as D5. The length S of the step layer 5 is, for example, about 20% or more of the length D5 of each of the L gaps 51. Specifically, the length S of the first step layer 5a in the length direction L is, for example, about 20% or more of the distance in the length direction L between the tip E1 of each of the second internal electrode layers 10b and the first end surface 62a, that is, the length D5 of the first L gap 51a in the length direction L. Similarly, the length S of the second step layer 5b in the length direction L is, for example, about 20% or more of the distance in the length direction L between the tip E2 of each of the first internal electrode layers 10a and the second end surface 62b, i.e., the length D5 of the second L gap 51b in the length direction L.

[0095] FIG. 5 shows two first step layers 5a and two second step layers 5b. For the two first step layers 5a, the length S in the length direction L is defined as a length S2 for the first step layer 5a closer to the first main surface 61a than the second main surface 61b, and as a length S4 for the first step layer 5a closer to the second main surface 61b than the first main surface 61a. The length S2 and the length S4 are both about 20% or more of the length D5 in the length direction L of the first L gap 51a, for example.

[0096] The same applies to the second step layers 5b. For the two second step layers 5b, the length S in the length direction L is defined as a length S1 for the second step layer 5b closer to the first main surface 61a than the second main surface 61b, and as a length S3 for the second step layer 5b closer to the second main surface 61b than the first main surface 61a. Both the length S1 and the length S3 are 20% or more of the length D5 in the length direction L of the second L gap 51b.

Bent Portion

[0097] A bent portion 40 of each of the internal electrode layers 10 will be described with reference to FIG. 6. FIG. 6 is an LT cross-sectional view of a portion of the multilayer ceramic electronic component 1 of the second example embodiment. FIG. 6 shows the first L gap 51a, etc., of the multilayer ceramic electronic component 1. Each of the internal electrode layers 10 according to the second example embodiment includes the bent portion 40. Each of the bent portions 40 indicates a portion of the extension portion 12 of the internal electrode layer 10 where the internal electrode layer 10 is bent toward the second main surface 61b.

[0098] FIG. 6 shows the bent portion 40 of each of the first internal electrode layers 10a. FIG. 6 shows five bent portions 40, for example. The five bent portions 40 are denoted by reference numerals 41 to 45 in order from the first main surface 61a to the second main surface 61b.

Start Point of Bent Portion

[0099] The start point of the bending of each of the bent portions 40 is denoted by a point F, and the end point of the bending thereof is denoted by a point G. The start point of the bending is a point at which the internal electrode layer 10a in the extension portion 12 starts bending toward the second main surface 61b. In FIG. 6, for each bent portion 40, the point F, which is a start point of bending, is shown as a point F1 to a point F5.

End Point of Bent Portion

[0100] The end point of bending is a point at which the bent portion 40 of the internal electrode layer 10 comes into contact with the end surface 62. In the configuration shown in FIG. 6, the end point of bending is a point at which the first internal electrode layer 10a comes into contact with the first end surface 62a. In FIG. 6, for each bent portion 40, the point G, which is an end point of bending, is shown as a point G1 to a point G5.

Length of Bent Portion

[0101] The length M of each of the bent portions 40 will be described. The length M of each of the bent portions 40 is a distance in the length direction L between the start point G of the bending and the end point G of the bending. In FIG. 6, for each bent portion 40, the length M of each of the bent portions 40 is shown as a length M1 to a length M5. The length M of each of the bent portions 40 decreases as the internal electrode layer 10 gets closer to the second main surface 61b than the first main surface 61a. That is, the length M decreases in the order from the length M1 to the length M5.

Height of Bent Portion

[0102] The height N of each of the bent portions 40 will be described. The height N of each of the bent portions 40 is a distance in the height direction T between the start point G of the bending and the end point G of the bending. In FIG. 6, for each bent portion 40, the height N of each of the bent portions 40 is shown as a height N1 to a height N5. The height N of each of the bent portions 40 decreases as the internal electrode layer 10 gets closer to the second main surface 61b than the first main surface 61a. That is, the height N decreases in the order from the height N1 to the height N5.

[0103] A third example embodiment of the multilayer ceramic electronic component 1 of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 7 to 11. In the following description, differences from the first example embodiment and the second example embodiment will be mainly described. In each of the first example embodiment and the second example embodiment, the multilayer ceramic electronic component 1 is a multilayer ceramic capacitor including two terminals. However, the multilayer ceramic electronic component 1 is not limited to a two-terminal multilayer ceramic capacitor. The multilayer ceramic electronic component 1 may be a multilayer ceramic capacitor having three or more terminals. The third example embodiment provides a multilayer ceramic electronic component 1 having a three-terminal multilayer ceramic capacitor.

Outline of Multilayer Ceramic Electronic Component

[0104] An outline of the configuration of the multilayer ceramic electronic component 1 will be described with reference to FIG. 7. FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the multilayer ceramic electronic component 1 of the present example embodiment. As shown in FIG. 7, in the multilayer ceramic electronic component 1 of the third example embodiment, the external electrodes 20 are provided on the two lateral surfaces 63 in addition to the two end surfaces 62. Each of the external electrodes 20 provided on the lateral surfaces 63 is referred to as a lateral external electrode 30. The lateral external electrodes 30 include a first lateral external electrode 30a and a second lateral external electrode 30b. The first lateral external electrode 30a is provided on the first lateral surface 63a. The second lateral external electrode 30b is provided on the second lateral surface 63b. In the multilayer ceramic electronic component 1 of the present example embodiment, the internal electrode layers 10 and the external electrodes 20 can be connected to each other on the two lateral surfaces 63 in addition to the two end surfaces 62.

LT Cross-Sectional Layer

[0105] The LT cross section of the multilayer ceramic electronic component 1 will be described with reference to FIG. 8. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line III-III of FIG. 7. As shown in FIG. 8, the multilayer body 2 includes a plurality of end surface-exposed electrode layers 10c and a plurality of lateral surface-exposed electrode layers 10d that are laminated with the inner ceramic layer 4a interposed therebetween. Each of the plurality of end surface-exposed electrode layers 10c is connected to the first external electrode 20a at the first end surface 62a. Each of the plurality of end surface-exposed electrode layers 10c is also connected to the second external electrode 20b at the second end surface 62b. On the contrary, none of the plurality of lateral surface-exposed electrode layers 10d are connected to the external electrodes 20 at any of the end surfaces 62. In the three-terminal multilayer ceramic capacitor, each of the end surface-exposed electrode layers 10c functions as a through electrode. Further, each of the lateral surface-exposed electrode layers 10d functions as a ground electrode.

WT Cross-Sectional Layer

[0106] The WT cross section of the multilayer ceramic electronic component 1 will be described with reference to FIG. 9. FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line IV-IV of FIG. 7. As shown in FIG. 9, each of the plurality of lateral surface-exposed electrode layers 10d is connected to the first lateral external electrode 30a at the first lateral surface 63a. Each of the plurality of lateral surface-exposed electrode layers 10d is connected to the second lateral external electrode 30b at the second lateral surface 63b. On the contrary, none of the plurality of end surface-exposed electrode layer 10c are connected to the external electrode 20 at any lateral surface 63.

Planar Structure of Internal Electrode Layer

[0107] The planar structure of the plurality of end surface-exposed electrode layers 10c and the plurality of lateral surface-exposed electrode layers 10d will be described with reference to FIGS. 10 and 11. Here, the planar structure refers to a structure when each of the internal electrode layers 10 is viewed in the height direction T of the multilayer ceramic electronic component 1.

End Surface-Exposed Electrode Layer

[0108] Each of the plurality of end surface-exposed electrode layers 10c will be described with reference to FIG. 10. FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line V-V of FIG. 7. FIG. 10 shows a planar structure of each of the plurality of end surface-exposed electrode layers 10c. The end surface-exposed electrode layer 10c includes a first end surface extension portion 12c which is provided in a portion exposed at the first end surface 62a. Further, the end surface exposed electrode layer 10c includes a second end surface extension portion 12d which is provided in a portion exposed at the second end surface 62b. The counter portion 11 of the end surface-exposed electrode layer 10c is connected to the first end surface 62a via the first end surface extension portion 12c. The counter portion 11 of the end surface-exposed electrode layer 10c is connected to the second end surface 62b via the second end surface extension portion 12d. FIG. 10 shows the end surface-exposed electrode layer 10c with a rectangular or substantially rectangular shape. However, the widths in the width direction W of the counter portion 11 and each of the end surface contact portions, i.e., each of the first end surface extension portion 12c and the second end surface extension portion 12d, may be the same.

Lateral Surface-Exposed Electrode Layer

[0109] Each of the plurality of lateral surface-exposed electrode layers 10d will be described with reference to FIG. 11. FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line V-V of FIG. 7. FIG. 11 shows a planar structure of each of the plurality of lateral surface-exposed electrode layers 10d. The lateral surface-exposed electrode layers 10d includes a first lateral surface extension portion 12e which is provided in a portion exposed at the first lateral surface 63a. The lateral surface-exposed electrode layer 10d includes a second lateral surface extension portion 12f which is provided in a portion exposed at the second lateral surface 63b. The counter portion 11 of the lateral surface-exposed electrode layer 10d is connected to the first lateral surface 63a via the first lateral surface extension portion 12e. The counter portion 11 of the lateral surface-exposed electrode layer 10d is connected to the second lateral surface 63b via the second lateral surface extension portion 12f.

Definition of Region

[0110] In each of the end surface-exposed electrode layers 10c, a region corresponding to a region where the first lateral surface extension portion 12e is provided in the lateral surface-exposed electrode layer 10d is referred to as a third W gap 52c. Similarly, in the end surface-exposed electrode layer 10c, a region corresponding to a region where the second lateral surface extension portion 12f is provided in the lateral surface-exposed electrode layer 10d is referred to as a fourth W gap 52d.

[0111] In the lateral surface-exposed electrode layer 10d, a region corresponding to a region where the first end surface extension portion 12c is provided in the end surface-exposed electrode layer 10c is referred to as a third L gap 51c. Similarly, in the lateral surface exposed electrode layer 10d, a region corresponding to a region where the second end surface extension portion 12d is provided in the end surface exposed electrode layer 10c is referred to as a fourth L gap 51d.

[0112] In the length direction L of the multilayer body 2, the extension region 55 in which the first lateral surface extension portion 12e is provided is referred to as a first L extension region 55c. Similarly, in the length direction L of the multilayer body 2, the extension region 55 in which the second lateral surface extension portion 12f is provided is referred to as a second L extension region 55d.

[0113] Further, in the width direction W of the multilayer body 2, an extension region 55 in which the first end surface extension portion 12c is provided is referred to as a first W extension region 55a. Similarly, in the width direction W of the multilayer body 2, the extension region 55 in which the second end surface extension portion 12d is provided is referred to as a second W extension region 55b.

Step Layer

[0114] Even when the multilayer ceramic electronic component 1 is a three-terminal multilayer ceramic capacitor, the step layer 5 is provided as in the case of a two-terminal multilayer ceramic capacitor. By appropriately providing the step layer 5, it is possible to reduce or prevent the nonuniformity in the thickness of the multilayer body 2 in the height direction T due to the first end surface extension portion 12c, the second end surface extension portion 12d, the first lateral surface extension portion 12e, and the second lateral surface extension portion 12f.

End Surface Step Layer

[0115] In the present example embodiment, the step layers 5 include end surface step layers 5c and lateral surface step layers 5d. Each of the end surface step layers 5c can be used to eliminate a step difference caused by the first end surface extension portion 12c and the second end surface extension portion 12d of the end surface exposed electrode layer 10c. The lateral surface-exposed electrode layer 10d includes no electrode at a position corresponding to the first end surface extension portion 12c and at a position corresponding to the second end surface extension portion 12d. Therefore, in the same layer as the lateral surface-exposed electrode layer 10d, the end surface step layer 5c is provided at a position corresponding to the first end surface extension portion 12c and at a position corresponding to the second end surface extension portion 12d. With such a configuration, it is possible to reduce or prevent the nonuniformity in the height direction T of the multilayer body 2.

[0116] It is preferable to provide the end surface step layer 5c in the following two regions in the same layer as the lateral surface-exposed electrode layer 10d. One region is a portion where the third L gap 51c and the first W extension region 55a overlap each other in FIG. 11. The end surface step layer 5c provided in this portion reduces the nonuniformity in height because the lateral surface-exposed electrode layer 10d does not include the first end surface extension portion 12c. The other region is a portion where the fourth L gap 51d and the second W extension region 55b overlap each other in FIG. 11. The end surface step layer 5c provided in this portion reduces the nonuniformity in height because the lateral surface-exposed electrode layer 10d does not include the second end surface extension portion 12d.

Lateral Surface Step Layer

[0117] Next, the lateral surface step layers 5d will be described. Each of the lateral surface step layers 5d can be used to eliminate a step caused by the first lateral surface extension portion 12e and the second lateral surface extension portion 12f of the lateral surface-exposed electrode layer 10d. The end surface-exposed electrode layer 10c does not include an electrode at a position corresponding to the first lateral surface extension portion 12e and at a position corresponding to the second lateral surface extension portion 12f. Therefore, in the same layer as the end surface-exposed electrode layer 10c, the lateral surface step layer 5d is provided at a position corresponding to the first lateral surface extension portion 12e and at a position corresponding to the second lateral surface extension portion 12f. With such a configuration, it is possible to reduce or prevent the nonuniformity in the height direction T of the multilayer body 2.

[0118] In the same layer as the end surface-exposed electrode layer 10c, it is preferable to provide the lateral surface step layer 5d in the following two regions. One region is a portion where the third W gap 52c and the first L extension region 55c overlap with each other in FIG. 10. The lateral surface step layer 5d provided in this portion reduces the nonuniformity in height because the end surface-exposed electrode layer 10c does not include the first lateral surface extension portion 12e. The other region is a portion where the fourth W gap 52d and the second L extension region 55d overlap each other in FIG. 10. The lateral surface step layer 5d provided in this portion reduces the nonuniformity in height because the end surface-exposed electrode layer 10c does not include the second lateral surface extension portion 12f.

[0119] The end surface step layers 5c and the lateral surface step layers 5d can be arranged in the same configuration as the first step layer 5a and the second step layer 5b described in the first and second example embodiments. Further, in the first example embodiment and the second example embodiment, the configuration of the step layers 5 is described with the vicinity of the end surface 62 as an example. The configuration of the step layer 5 described based on the end surface 62 is appropriate not only for the end surface step layer 5c of the third example embodiment, but also for the lateral surface step layers 5d.

[0120] Further, the lateral surface step layers 5d can be provided in the same layer as the lateral surface-exposed electrode layer 10d. In a case where the lateral surface step layers 5d are provided in the same layer as the lateral surface exposed electrode layer 10d, the distance between the electrode layer 10 and the step layer 5 can be set to a distance in the length direction L between each of the adjacent lateral surface extension portions 12e and 12f and the lateral surface step layer 5d, for example. The distance between the electrode layer 10 and the step layer 5 may be a distance in the width direction W between the counter portion 11 of the lateral surface-exposed electrode layer 10d and the lateral surface step layer 5d adjacent to each other, for example.

[0121] Similarly, the end surface step layer 5c can be provided in the same layer as the end surface-exposed electrode layer 10c. When the end surface step layer 5c is provided in the same layer as the end surface-exposed electrode layer 10c, the distance between the electrode layer 10 and the step layer 5 can be set to a distance in the length direction L between the counter portion 11 of the end surface-exposed electrode layer 10c and the end surface step layer 5c adjacent to each other, for example. The distance between the electrode layer 10 and the step layer 5 may be a distance in the width direction W between each of the end surface extension portions 12c and 12d and the end surface step layer 5c, adjacent to each other, for example.

[0122] The above-described example embodiments can also be combined. In the first example embodiment, the thickness of the step layer 5 in the height direction T is mainly described. On the other hand, in the second example embodiment, the length of the step layer 5 in the length direction T is mainly described. For example, the thickness in the height direction T of the step layer 5 may be the same as in the first example embodiment, and the length in the length direction T of the step layer 5 may be the same as in the second example embodiment.

[0123] As described above, in the third example embodiment, the step layer 5 of the first example embodiment or the second example embodiment may be applied to at least one of the end surface-exposed electrode layer 10c or the lateral surface-exposed electrode layer 10d. In the third example embodiment, the step layer 5 of the first example embodiment may be applied to one of the end surface-exposed electrode layer 10c or the lateral surface-exposed electrode layer 10d, and the step layer 5 of the second example embodiment may be applied to the remaining one of the end surface-exposed electrode layer 10c or the lateral surface-exposed electrode layer 10d. In the third example embodiment, the step layer 5 in which the first example embodiment and the second example embodiment are combined may be applied to at least one of the end surface-exposed electrode layer 10c or the lateral surface-exposed electrode layer 10d. Thus, the above-described example embodiments can be variously combined.

Method of Manufacturing Multilayer Ceramic Electronic Component

[0124] An example of a method of manufacturing the multilayer ceramic electronic component 1 will be described.

Preparation of Multilayer Block

[0125] A ceramic green sheet, an electrode paste for forming the internal electrode layer 10, and a step paste for forming the step layer 5 are prepared.

Application of Paste

[0126] The electrode paste and the step paste are applied to the ceramic green sheet in a desired pattern. Each paste can be applied to the ceramic green sheet by, for example, screen printing or gravure printing. The electrode paste and the step paste are printed on the ceramic green sheet in a predetermined pattern by any printing method. Thereby, the ceramic green sheet for forming the inner layer portion 53 on which the paste is printed is obtained. Control of the distance in the length direction between the step layers and the internal electrode layers can be changed by changing the location to which the paste for forming the step layers is applied.

Lamination

[0127] A predetermined number of ceramic green sheets on which patterns of the internal electrode layer 10 are not printed are laminated. A portion corresponding to the outer layer portion 54 is thereby manufactured. A ceramic green sheet for forming the inner layer portion 53 applied with paste is sequentially laminated thereon. A portion corresponding to the inner layer portion 53 is thereby laminated. Further, a predetermined number of ceramic green sheets for forming the other outer layer portion 54 are laminated thereon. Thus, a multilayer sheet is manufactured. The multilayer sheet is pressed in the height direction via, for example, hydrostatic pressing to prepare a multilayer block.

Preparation of Multilayer Chip

[0128] The multilayer block is cut into a predetermined size, and the multilayer chip is cut out. At this time, the corner portions and ridge portions of the multilayer chip may be rounded by barrel polishing or the like.

Firing

[0129] Next, the multilayer chip is fired to prepare a multilayer body 2. The firing temperature depends on the materials of the ceramic layer 4 and the internal electrode layer 10, but is preferably about 900° C. or higher and about 1400° C. or lower, for example.

External Electrode

[0130] Next, the external electrodes 20 are formed.

Base Layer

[0131] An electrically conductive paste functioning as the base layer 21 is applied to the two end surfaces 62 of the multilayer body 2 to form the base layer 21. In order to form the fired layer, an electrically conductive paste containing a glass component and a metal is applied by a method such as dipping. Then, firing treatment is performed to form the base layer 21. The temperature of the firing treatment is preferably about 500° C. or higher and about 900° C. or lower, for example. The firing treatment time is preferably about 30 minutes or more and about 2 hours or less, for example. The atmosphere of the firing treatment is preferably, for example, a reducing atmosphere containing H₂O or H₂.

[0132] Next, a plated layer 23 is formed on the surface of the base layer 21. In the present example embodiment, a Ni plated layer is formed on the fired layer. This Ni plated layer functions as the inner plated layer 23a. Next, an Sn plated layer is formed on the Ni plated layer. This Sn plated layer functions as the surface plated layer 23b. The Ni plated layer and the Sn plated layer are sequentially formed by, for example, barrel plating. Thus, the multilayer ceramic electronic component 1 is manufactured.

[0133] When a three-terminal multilayer ceramic capacitor is manufactured, the external electrodes 20 are formed on the two lateral surfaces 63 in addition to the two end surfaces 62 of the multilayer body 2.

Method of Measuring Thickness

[0134] Examples of a method of measuring the length, thickness, and the like of the ceramic layer 4, the internal electrode layer 10, and the like, include a method of observing, with a scanning electron microscope, the cross section of the multilayer body 2 exposed by polishing can be mentioned. Further, each value may be an average value of measurement values at a plurality of locations corresponding to a portion to be measured. The length of each portion of the multilayer body 2 and the like can be measured by a micrometer or an optical microscope. The step layers become thicker as it approaches the first main surface. At this time, the distance between the first internal electrode layer and the first internal electrode layer closest to the first main surface increases as the distance approaches the first main surface.

Method of Measuring Coverage Ratio

[0135] The coverage ratio can be measured, for example, as follows. The internal electrode layer 10 includes a cavity portion in which no metal exists. In the internal electrode layer 10, the percentage occupied by the metal is referred to as a coverage ratio. However, when the internal electrode layers 10 and the ceramic layers 4 are laminated, a portion of the cavity of the internal electrode layer 10 may be filled with a ceramic material. Accordingly, the coverage ratio is defined as metal/(metal+(cavity or ceramic material)). That is, the entire internal electrode layer 10 is a sum of (i) a metal, (ii) a portion that is not filled with the ceramic material and exists as a cavity, and (iii) a portion that is filled with the ceramic material in the cavity. The ratio of (i) the metal relative to the entire internal electrode layer 10 is defined as the coverage ratio.

[0136] Specifically, the coverage ratio can be calculated by the following method. First, the multilayer body 2 is polished to expose a cross section of a portion where the coverage ratio is measured. Then, the step surface exposed is observed with an optical microscope or the like to obtain the area of the metal within a predetermined range. The coverage ratio is calculated based on the obtained area. The coverage ratio may be an average of values obtained at a plurality of locations.

[0137] Although example embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the example embodiments described above, and various changes and modifications are possible.

[0138] While example embodiments of the present invention have been described above, it is to be understood that variations and modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention. The scope of the present invention, therefore, is to be determined solely by the following claims.