High rate optical fiber fabrication process using thermophoretically enhanced particle deposition

摘要

This invention is a technique for fabricating optical fibers using thermophoretically enhanced particle deposition. In this process a cooling liquid such as water is poured over the substrate upon which deposition occurs in order to thermophoretically enhance the deposition. It has been found that despite the significant thermal shock that such water imparts to the tube, and despite previous difficulty with cracking because of thermal stresses which may develop, especially upon cooling, applicants have found that structural integrity may be maintained and enhanced deposition rates result.