Analyzing the Bending Ability of ZBLAN Optical Fibers

摘要

The bending ability of an optical fiber is determined by the inherent micro-structural properties of the fiber. The major differences between the properties of an amorphous glass and a glass containing small amounts of microcrystals is that these inherent flaws play a strong role in the handling and bending ability of optical fibers, particularly in ZBLAN fibers. ZBLAN, a formulation from the ZrF4-BaF2-LaF3-AlF3-NaF system is the most stable glass for mid-infrared (IR) optical fiber applications, such as application in mid-IR sensors, radiometry, and laser power delivery. However, microcrystals formed during the fiber drawing process make this fiber a difficult material to handle and often fails when collected around the take-up reel. This study analyzes the bending ability of ZBLAN optical fibers by subjecting samples to heat-treatments and incremental bending radii of curvature. The results show that a fiber drawing take-up reel needs to be at least 15.24 cm (6.0 in.) in order to prevent breakage while drawing.