All-fused-silica miniature optical fiber tip pressure sensor

An all-fused-silica pressure sensor fabricated directly onto a fiber tip of 125 urn diameter is described. Simple fabrication steps include only cleaving and fusion splicing. Because no chemical processes are involved, the fabrication is easy, safe, and cost effective. Issues in sensor design and loss analysis are discussed. The sensor has been tested for static pressure response, showing a sensitivity of 2.2 nm/psi, a resolution of 0.01 psi (68.9 Pa), a hysteresis of 0.025%, and capability of operation at temperatures up to 600 degrees C. This miniature sensor may be suitable for medical diagnostics, environmental monitoring, and other industrial applications. (c) 2006 Optical Society of America.