Laser processed preforms for microstructured optical fibers

Abstract

We present a laser drilling technology eminently suitable for structuring of solid glass preforms for microstructured optical fibers (MOF). This technology allows fiber designs that can not be easily adressed by stack and draw technology. As an example, we present a four ring hexagonal hole structure drilled in a silica rod over a length of 80 mm at ILT. The fiber drawn from this preform was used for absorption measurements and fiber Bragg grating inscription experiments at IPHT. Geometrical aspects are compared to those of a MOF with a similar structure made by the stack and draw technology.