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Updated: Mar 19, 2026

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Fiber Optic Distributed Sensors for High-resolution Temperature Field Mapping
Published on: November 7, 2016
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High-temperature interferometric fiber-optic acoustic logging sensor based on a thin-walled metal sensitization
Applied Optics
|March 17, 2026
Summary
A novel fiber-optic acoustic sensor offers improved performance for downhole applications. This advanced sensor technology enhances acoustic remote detection in challenging oil and gas exploration environments.
Area of Science:
- Fiber-optic sensing
- Acoustic detection
- Downhole instrumentation
Background:
- Conventional electric acoustic logging tools face limitations in performance and reliability.
- There is a need for advanced sensors capable of operating in extreme downhole conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To propose and characterize a long-cavity interferometric fiber-optic acoustic sensor.
- To enhance acoustic remote detection capabilities for deep oil and gas exploration.
Main Methods:
- Finite element simulations were used to optimize sensor design parameters.
- Experimental characterization validated the sensor's acoustic pressure sensitivity and operational stability.
- The sensor incorporated a thin-walled metal sensitization structure and a pressure-resistant packaging.
Main Results:
- The optimized sensor achieved a stable acoustic pressure sensitivity of -156.56 dB re 1 rad/µPa from 20-600 Hz.
- Reliable operation was demonstrated at temperatures up to 240°C.
- Low triaxial acceleration sensitivities (below -18 dB re 1 rad/g) confirmed robustness in complex environments.
Conclusions:
- The proposed fiber-optic acoustic sensor overcomes limitations of conventional tools.
- Its high sensitivity, stability, and reliability at elevated temperatures make it suitable for deep oil and gas exploration.
- This technology is promising for next-generation optical fiber acoustic logging tools.

