Edward J. Fewkes

Nano-engineered optical fibers and applications1

Abstract The paper reviews optical fibers with nano-engineered features and methods to fabricate them. These optical fibers have nano-engineered regions comprising of randomly distributed voids which provide unique properties for designing next generation of fibers. Discussion of impact of void morphology on fiber optical properties is presented, along with the methods to control the void characteristics. Use of nano-engineered fibers for different applications (ultra-low bend loss single mode fiber, quasi-single mode bend loss fiber, endless single-mode fiber, light diffusing fibers) is discussed and the unique optical attributes of the fibers in these applications is highlighted.

Light diffusing optical fiber for Illumination

We describe the design of thin, ~ 100-180 micron diameter, optical silica fibers for illumination. The fiber has a silica core with specially engineered scattering centers to scatter light through walls of the fiber across a wide wavelength range

Novel light diffusing fiber for use in medical applications

Fiber-based cylindrical light diffusers are often used in photodynamic therapy to illuminate a luminal organ, such as the esophagus. The diffusers are often made of plastic and suffer from short diffusion lengths and low transmission efficiencies over a broad spectrum. We have developed FibranceTM, a glass-based fiber optic cylindrical diffuser which can illuminate a fiber from 0.5 cm to 10 meters over a broad wavelength range. With these longer illumination lengths, a variety of other medical applications are possible beyond photodynamic therapy. We present a number of applications for Fibrance ranging from in situ controllable illumination for Photodynamic Therapy to light guided anatomy highlighting for minimally invasive surgery to mitigating hospital acquired infections and more.