Spatial-division multiplexed hybrid Raman and Brillouin distributed sensor employing multicore fiber

Abstract

Employing the multiple spatially independent channels offered by multicore fiber (MCF), spatial-division multiplexed (SDM) hybrid Raman and Brillouin distributed sensor has been demonstrated. The interrogation of Raman and Brillouin scattering are performed in distinct cores of the MCF, allowing for flexible management of the input powers between each of them, which is actually incompatible in hybrid Raman/Brillouin distributed system using single mode fibers (SMFs) due to the limitation of nonlinear effects. The proposed SDM system employs shared devices to generate pump pulse, but separate interrogation fiber channels. The combination of Raman and Brillouin sensing provides the capability of discriminative measurement between temperature and strain.