Ultraviolet Fiber Optics for Fire and Explosion Detection

摘要

Fiber optics bundles of lengths up to 12 1/2 feet, capable of being used in the middle ultraviolet region (200 NM to 300 NM), were fabricated. The use of suprasil for the core material and magnesium fluoride (MGF2) for the cladding was adopted. Transmission of light above wavelengths of 250 NM appears feasible, but cladding and endface fusing contributed to the overall attenuation of wavelengths shorter than 250 NM. The results of this program have extended long fiber optics bundle short wavelength transmission from 370 NM to below 250 NM and now make it possible to remotely detect flames using ultraviolet sensors. Capability for use at 1000 F in the environment associated with Mach III to Mach VIII vehicles for fire and explosion detection has been established. (Author)