Stability of mechanical properties of silica based optical fibres under /spl gamma/-radiation

Abstract

Silica fibres protected by different coatings were tested under /spl gamma/-irradiation (1.7 MGy (Si)). In contrast to the previous works the samples were irradiated both in air and in distilled water to observe whether there is a combined effect of /spl gamma/-rays and water. New types of protective coatings-namely, hermetic metal coatings (Al and Sn) were tested for the first time. A set of coatings which might be used under /spl gamma/-irradiation in combination with other possible harsh factors was characterised.