Liquid spray pyrolysis method for the fabrication of optical fiber preforms, with reactant mixing

This invention relates generally to optical fibers and, in particular, to methods for fabricating optical fiber preforms suitable for use as multi-mode optical fiber precursors. A method is disclosed for fabricating a preform suitable for use in manufacturing a wide bandwidth multi-mode optical fibe...

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Bibliographische Detailangaben
1. Verfasser: Morse, Theodore F
Format: Patent
Sprache:eng
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Zusammenfassung:This invention relates generally to optical fibers and, in particular, to methods for fabricating optical fiber preforms suitable for use as multi-mode optical fiber precursors. A method is disclosed for fabricating a preform suitable for use in manufacturing a wide bandwidth multi-mode optical fiber. The method includes steps of employing a liquid phase spray pyrolysis technique for generating silica soot at a high rate, in combination with a non-chlorine containing liquid silica precursor and a refractory, index of refraction raising additive that overcomes the problems inherent in the use of germanium-based chemistry at typical sintering temperatures. The refractory, index of refraction raising additive is preferably comprised of a Group VB element oxide, such as a tantalum oxide. The liquid precursor is preferably comprised of a polymethylsiloxane, such as hexamethyl di-siloxane, octamethylcyclotetrasiloxane (OMCCTS), or tetramethylcyclotetrasiloxane. The step of employing a liquid phase spray pyrolysis technique includes the steps of: (a) merging at least two liquid streams, one comprised of the liquid silica precursor and another one comprised of the liquid silica precursor in combination with the additive; (b) atomizing, spraying and then combusting the merged streams to form a flame that generates silica soot that contains the additive; and (c) varying the flow rate of at least one of the streams in order to vary a concentration of the additive in the silica soot.