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Eliminating Crystals in Non-Oxide Optical Fiber Preforms and Optical FibersNon ]oxide fiber optics such as heavy metal fluoride and chalcogenide glasses are extensively used in infrared transmitting applications such as communication systems, chemical sensors, and laser fiber guides for cutting, welding and medical surgery. The addition of rare earths such as erbium, enable these materials to be used as fiber laser and amplifiers. Some of these glasses however are very susceptible to crystallization. Even small crystals can lead to light scatter and a high attenuation coefficient, limiting their usefulness. Previously two research teams found that microgravity suppressed crystallization in heavy metal fluoride glasses. Looking for a less expensive method to suppress crystallization, ground based research was performed utilizing an axial magnetic field. The experiments revealed identical results to those obtained via microgravity processing. This research then led to a patented process for eliminating crystals in optical fiber preforms and the resulting optical fibers. In this paper, the microgravity results will be reviewed as well as patents and papers relating to the use of magnetic fields in various material and glass processing applications. Finally our patent to eliminate crystals in non ]oxide glasses utilizing a magnetic field will be detailed.
Document ID
20120016709
Acquisition Source
Marshall Space Flight Center
Document Type
Preprint (Draft being sent to journal)
Authors
Tucker, Dennis S.
(NASA Marshall Space Flight Center Huntsville, AL, United States)
LaPointe, Michael R.
(National Space Science and Technology Center Huntsville, AL, United States)
Date Acquired
August 26, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 2012
Subject Category
Composite Materials
Report/Patent Number
M12-1998
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Work of the US Gov. Public Use Permitted.
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