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Optical fiber interferometric anemometer using a cobalt-doped fiber hot wire.
Optics Express
|December 19, 2025
Summary
This study demonstrates a novel optical fiber anemometer using cobalt-doped fiber (CDF) as a hot wire. The device offers high sensitivity for accurate wind speed measurement, simplifying traditional anemometer designs.
Area of Science:
- Optoelectronics
- Sensor Technology
- Fiber Optics
Background:
- Traditional hot-wire anemometers often require complex setups and metal coatings.
- Optical fiber sensors offer potential advantages in sensitivity and robustness.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and demonstrate a novel optical fiber interferometric anemometer.
- To utilize cobalt-doped fiber (CDF) as a sensitive element for wind speed detection.
Main Methods:
- An optical fiber Mach-Zehnder interferometer (MZI) was constructed with CDF in the sensing arm.
- The CDF was optically heated using a 1480 nm laser.
- Changes in MZI fringe wavelength due to CDF temperature variations were correlated with wind speed.
Main Results:
- High sensitivities of -5.13 nm/(m/s) at 0.1 m/s and -2.44 nm/(m/s) at 0.5 m/s were achieved.
- Sensitivity was significantly higher (up to 4.9x) compared to fiber grating Fabry-Perot interferometers.
- The CDF's self-absorption eliminated the need for metal coatings and laser coupling devices.
Conclusions:
- The proposed optical fiber anemometer offers a simple, highly sensitive, and easily fabricated solution for wind speed measurement.
- This technology presents a promising alternative for various industrial applications requiring accurate wind monitoring.

