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Birefringence and polarization mode-dispersion in spun single-mode fibers
Applied Optics
|March 25, 2010
Summary
Researchers developed a new method for twisting optical fibers, significantly reducing polarization anisotropy and birefringence. This innovation makes fibers ideal for Faraday-effect current transducers and enhances bandwidth for telecommunication links.
Area of Science:
- Optics and Photonics
- Materials Science
Background:
- Conventionally twisted single-mode fibers exhibit significant optical rotation and polarization anisotropy.
- Linear birefringence is a common issue in optical fibers, limiting their performance in certain applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To theoretically and experimentally analyze the polarization properties of twisted single-mode fibers.
- To investigate a novel fiber fabrication technique for minimizing polarization anisotropy and birefringence.
Main Methods:
- Theoretical modeling of polarization properties in twisted fibers.
- Experimental fabrication of fibers with permanent twist induced during drawing.
- Characterization of optical rotation, polarization anisotropy, and birefringence.
Main Results:
- Fibers with permanent twist show minimal polarization anisotropy, unlike conventionally twisted fibers.
- Linear birefringence is virtually eliminated in permanently twisted fibers.
- Permanent twist effectively suppresses polarization mode-dispersion.
Conclusions:
- Permanently twisted fibers are highly suitable for Faraday-effect current transducers due to negligible birefringence.
- This technique offers a promising solution for enhancing the bandwidth of long-haul unrepeatered telecommunication links by eliminating polarization mode-dispersion.
