POLYMER OPTICAL FIBRE SENSING:Advantages and obstacles

Abstract

This paper explores the different physical and chemical properties of silica and polymer fibre and how these impact on the behaviour of sensors based on these fibres. It identifies circumstances where the use of POF ought to be advantageous, such as where the sensor needs to survive high levels of strain. Recognising that POF sen-sors have not so far had anything like the commercial success of their silica-based counterparts, it also explores possible reasons for that discrepancy.