High-Strength Fiber-Optic Waveguide
Abstract
The objective of this program is to develop techniques leading to an optical waveguide able to withstand a continual strain of 2% for 10 years in a humid environment. The approach is to use a hermetic jacket of metal to protect the inherently strong silica fiber from static fatigue attack by moisture. The main technical problem is the application of a metal sheath free of defects over multikilometer lengths without serious degradation of the initial high strength of the pristine silica waveguide. During the first quarter, temperature control of the metal coating tip was identified as the most critical parameter in eliminating sporadic openings in the metal sheath which lead to low-strength ruptures. Toward the end of this period we produced kilometer lengths of metal- clad fiber substantially free of such defects. Evaluation studies will begin next quarter. A research study of the inherent static fatigue resistance of silica doped with GeO2, B2O3, and P2O5 has been initiated. Development of sample preparation and testing techniques has been started and will continue into the next quarter.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 01, 1978
- Accession Number
- ADA134931
Entities
People
- G. D. Robertson
Organizations
- HRL Laboratories