Low-Cost Polymer Core Optical Fiber Based Sensor

Project Title A Low-Cost Polymer Core Optical Fiber Based Sensor

Track Code 08-57

Website www.uta.edu/ra/otm/

Short Description: Abstract

Detailed Description 

Fiber optic sensor (FOS) technology is used to detect and measure a variety of measurements including physical and chemical parameters due to their immunity to electromagnetic interferences and a capability to work in harsh conditions. The two types of gratings, Fiber Bragg Grating (FBG) and Long Period Fiber Grating (LPFG) are commonly used for sensing, though the modifications needed to make them efficient often result in costlier sensors. Some of them require precision micro-machining or multiple polishing applications, thereby increasing costs and manufacturing complexity.

Dr.Haiying Huang and her team have developed a unique, simple-to-make, extremely cost efficient fiber optic sensor that is based on Fabry-Perot interference.

This low-cost optical fiber based polymer core sensor can be customizable as per the end-user requirements and is not only easy to manufacture but also does not require complex fabrication techniques or cladding materials, dyes or etching. 

This optical fiber sensor can measure strain, arbitrary  small distances, temperature and refractive index (RI). 

A RI sensitivity of 65 nm per unit RI change has been demonstrated. RI measurement can be applied to detecting an analyte, toxin or biological agent or monitoring a chemical process. 

The technology also includes a simple and economical way to manufacture and mass-produce these sensors.

SOURCE: Click Link for more information and detail - 

http://www.flintbox.com/public/project/20114/