FIXATION OF THE OPTICAL FIBER IN THE CONNECTOR USING HYDROGEL

Abstract

A method of fastening optical fiber in a quartz connector with a sodium polysilicate hydrogel obtained in a cylindrical gap between the connector and the fiber due to the alkaline decomposition of quartz surfaces of parts was developed. The conditions of thermal decomposition of the hydrogel are determined and it is shown that the decomposition of the hydrogel with the formation of a cellular structure is possible at temperatures below the temperature of thermal decomposition of the polymer coating of the fiber. The conditions for obtaining and thermal properties of the hydrogel are determined. Conclusions are drawn about the suitability of the proposed method for fixing optical fiber in a quartz connector.