Hybrid glass coatings for optical fibers-progress toward optimization for aerospace cables

Abstract

The Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) is supporting development of novel coating materials and processes for optimized optical fiber for use in the harsh aerospace environment. Specifically NAVAIR desires fiber of improved bending strength and water corrosion resistance, capable of performing in a high temperature environment with ease of termination. In our previous papers we reported a new type of thermally resistant non strippable coating inorganic-organic hybrid called "hybrid glass". In those studies the hybrid glass coating was applied on optical fibers as a single UV curable layer, bonded covalently to the fiber that provided it with enhanced strength and environmental durability. Additional benefits included smaller fiber diameter, minimal bend radius and ease of termination. This study is a continuation of our effort to assess the protective properties of high temperature hybrid glass coating on optical fibers inserted in aerospace cables. The research also includes a strippable version of hybrid glass coating. This paper discusses test results of hybrid glass performance on cabled multimode and single mode optical fibers coated with strippable and non strippable hybrid glass coatings.