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A Silicon-tipped Fiber-optic Sensing Platform with High Resolution and Fast Response
Published on: January 7, 2019
High-visibility photonic crystal fiber interferometer as multifunctional sensor
G A Cárdenas-Sevilla1, Fernando C Fávero, Joel Villatoro
1Corning Cable Systems SA de CV Reynosa Plant, Cd. Reynosa, Tamaulipas 88730, Mexico. CardenasGA@corning.com
Sensors (Basel, Switzerland)
|February 12, 2013
Summary
A novel photonic crystal fiber interferometer achieves record fringe contrast for high-visibility sensing. This device enables precise refractometric and liquid level measurements with excellent resolution.
Area of Science:
- Optics and Photonics
- Fiber Optic Sensors
- Interferometry
Background:
- Photonic Crystal Fibers (PCFs) offer unique modal properties for optical sensing.
- Interferometers are sensitive devices for measuring physical parameters.
- High fringe contrast is crucial for accurate sensor performance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To demonstrate a novel photonic crystal fiber (PCF) interferometer.
- To achieve record fringe contrast for enhanced sensing capabilities.
- To explore the sensing applications of the developed interferometer.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of a PCF interferometer by fusion splicing PCF to single-mode optical fibers.
- Utilizing two identical collapsed zones within the PCF to induce interference.
- Operating the device in reflection mode for sensing applications.
Main Results:
- Achieved a record fringe contrast of approximately 40 dB.
- Demonstrated suitability for refractometric sensing within a 1.33 to 1.43 refractive index range.
- Attained a maximum resolution of approximately 1.6 × 10⁻⁵ for measurements.
- Showcased potential for liquid level sensing applications.
Conclusions:
- The developed PCF interferometer offers superior performance due to its high fringe contrast.
- The device provides a robust platform for high-resolution refractometric and liquid level sensing.
- This technology has significant potential for various optical sensing applications.
