Tapered multicore fiber interferometer for ultra-sensitive temperature sensing with thermo-optical materials

Area of Science:

• Photonics
• Optical Sensing
• Materials Science

Background:

• Interferometric sensors offer high sensitivity for various applications.
• Thermo-optic materials can enhance sensor performance.
• Tapered multicore fibers provide a platform for novel optical devices.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose and investigate a novel in-line interferometer for temperature sensing.
• To enhance the temperature sensitivity of a tapered multicore fiber interferometer.
• To establish design criteria for high-sensitivity photonic thermometers.

Main Methods:

• Theoretical modeling and experimental investigation of a tapered multicore fiber interferometer.
• Integration of a thermo-optic material (PDMS) with the interferometer.
• Systematic variation of the tapered waist diameter to optimize sensitivity.
• Analysis of interference fading and sensor design limitations.

Main Results:

• The PDMS-coated TMCF interferometer demonstrated significantly improved temperature sensitivity.
• Sensitivity increased with reduced tapered waist diameter, reaching 5-25 nm/°C.
• Quantitative criteria for sensor design and performance limits were established.
• The sensor showed high sensitivity in the temperature range of 10-50 °C.

Conclusions:

• The proposed photonic thermometer exhibits ultra-high sensitivity.
• The device is suitable for precise temperature measurements in demanding environments.
• The study provides a foundation for designing advanced photonic temperature sensors.