Fiber optic sensor coatings with enhanced sensitivity and longevity

Steven R. Cordero; Harold Mukamal; Aaron Low; Manal Beshay; David Ruiz; Robert A. Lieberman

doi:10.1117/12.685425

17 October 2006 Fiber optic sensor coatings with enhanced sensitivity and longevity

Steven R. Cordero, Harold Mukamal, Aaron Low, Manal Beshay, David Ruiz, Robert A. Lieberman

Proceedings Volume 6377, Advanced Environmental, Chemical, and Biological Sensing Technologies IV; 63770C (2006) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.685425
Event: Optics East 2006, 2006, Boston, Massachusetts, United States

Abstract

Fiber optic sensors that utilize evanescent field interactions as a detection mechanism have proven to be quite sensitive. We recently reported on the development of this type of distributed sensor for toxic chemicals such as HCN, H₂S, and Cl₂. The optical fibers are multimode and consist of a fused silica core and an agent-specific chemically-sensitive cladding. Upon exposure to the corresponding challenge gas, the cladding changes color, resulting in an attenuation of the light throughput of the fiber. These fibers were produced in long lengths using conventional fiber optic draw towers. However, failure mechanisms, such as indicator migration, crystallization, and oxidation, decrease the lifetime of the sensors. We report on recent progress we have made in the effort to optimize the sensor longevity with respect to these degradation mechanisms. The optimizations include covalent attachment of the indicators with the polymer cladding during fiber processing, and the use of antioxidants to minimize degradation.

Citation Download Citation

Steven R. Cordero, Harold Mukamal, Aaron Low, Manal Beshay, David Ruiz, and Robert A. Lieberman "Fiber optic sensor coatings with enhanced sensitivity and longevity", Proc. SPIE 6377, Advanced Environmental, Chemical, and Biological Sensing Technologies IV, 63770C (17 October 2006); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.685425

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