The transmission of ultraviolet radiation with optical fibers is a priori problematic due to the material properties of quartz fibers. High UV radiation intensities cause photothermal damage. Attenuation and scattering in the fibers quickly increase by a significant amount.
Polymicro Technologies developed solarization-resistant fibers that transmit UV radiation even after continuous application. The attenuation caused by the UV radiation is added to the starting attenuation of the fibers.
Good to Know: UV Fiber Stability
After its first exposure to UV radiation, the fiber should regenerate for a few hours. During this period of regeneration part of the initial solarization damage is permanently repaired. The state of the fiber achieved after regeneration remains the same upon further exposure to radiation!
FVP-UVM. The FVP-UVM is an inexpensive standard UV fiber and is available in many diameters and different buffer materials.
FVP-UVMI. The H2-enhanced FVP-UVMI fiber experiences barely any loss when used with UV light. At 214 nm, transmission stability was recorded for more than 8 hours. It also transmits reliably at wavelengths of less than 200 nm. The fiber has to be put to use almost immediately after delivery because it loses its hydrogen concentration with time and turns into an FVP-UVM fiber.
FDP. For the deep UV range – as low as 190 nm – we recommend an FDP fiber with minimal solarization characteristics and a long life expectancy.
The datasheet, which contains additional valuable information, is available for download, or simply contact us directly!
