X-ray computed $\mu$-tomography for the characterization of optical fibers

TL;DR

This paper demonstrates the use of X-ray absorption computed micro-tomography as a nondestructive method to visualize and analyze the internal structure and refractive index profile of optical glass fibers, complementing existing techniques.

Contribution

It introduces a novel application of X-ray absorption micro-tomography for optical fiber characterization, providing a nondestructive way to assess internal structures and refractive index profiles.

Findings

Successful visualization of fiber internal structure

Correlation with electron spectroscopy and multiphoton microscopy results

Validation of X-ray micro-tomography as a complementary technique

Abstract

In spite of their ubiquitous applications, the characterization of glass fibers by means of all-optical techniques is still facing some limitations. Recently, X-ray absorption has been proposed as a method for visualizing the inner structure of both standard and microstructure optical fibers. Here, we exploit X-ray absorption as nondestructive technique for the characterization of optical glass fibers. Starting from absorption contrast X-ray computed micro-tomography measurements, we obtain information about the spatial profile of the fiber refractive index at optical frequencies. We confirm the validity of our approach by comparing its results with complementary characterization techniques, based on electron spectroscopy or multiphoton microscopy.