Few-mode elastomeric optical fibers

We present a new approach for producing elastomeric optical fibers with an optical behaviour corresponding to a few-mode optical fiber. Different fibers have been produced by first fabricating thermoplastic polyurethane preforms and subsequently drawing them. The fiber attenuation has been measured by the cut-back technique and the fiber bending transmission tolerance evaluated. The fiber potential has been assessed through two basic experiments in order to highlight the benefits of elasticity and a reduced core diameter. Future potential of the proposed fiber is discussed and shows a very auspicious path towards new and unexplored applications. (c) 2021 Optical Society of America under the terms of the OSA Open Access Publishing Agreement

Automated summary

A new approach has been developed to produce elastomeric optical fibers with optical behavior similar to few-mode optical fibers. Different fibers are created by first fabricating thermoplastic polyurethane preforms and then stretching them. The fiber characteristics are evaluated and the potential for future applications is discussed, showing promising prospects for new and unexplored uses.