Multiple-beam propagation in an Anderson localized optical fiber

Area of Science:

• Optics and Photonics
• Condensed Matter Physics
• Materials Science

Background:

• Anderson localization describes wave confinement in disordered media.
• Optical fibers are crucial for modern communication and sensing.
• Simultaneous propagation of multiple beams (beam multiplexing) enhances data capacity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate simultaneous multiple beam propagation in Anderson localized optical fibers.
• To analyze the effect of fiber bends (macro-bending) on beam position (drift).
• To determine the feasibility of designing such fibers for practical beam-multiplexing.

Main Methods:

• Theoretical analysis of multiple beam propagation in disordered optical fibers.
• Numerical simulations to model beam profiles and their exponential decay.
• Investigation of beam drift induced by macro-bending.

Main Results:

• Multiple beams propagate simultaneously with exponentially decaying profiles.
• Fiber macro-bending induces beam drift, affecting beam positions.
• The extent of drift is quantifiable and predictable.

Conclusions:

• Anderson localized optical fibers support high-density beam multiplexing.
• Fiber design can mitigate or control beam drift caused by bending.
• These fibers offer a promising platform for advanced optical communication and sensing applications.