Robust multimaterial tellurium-based chalcogenide glass fibers for mid-wave and long-wave infrared transmission

We describe an approach for producing robust multimaterial chalcogenide glass fibers for mid-wave and long-wave mid-infrared transmission. By combining the traditional rod-in-tube process with multimaterial coextrusion, we prepare a hybrid glass-polymer preform that is drawn continuously into a robust step-index fiber with a built-in, thermally compatible polymer jacket. Using tellurium-based chalcogenides, the fibers have a transparency window covering the 3-12 mu m spectral range, making them particularly attractive for delivering quantum cascade laser light and in space applications. (C) 2014 Optical Society of America