Liquid spray pyrolysis method for the fabrication of optical fiber preforms, with reactant mixing
US6546757B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 2, 2001 |
| Grant date | Apr 15, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 2, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG02B6/0288
- WIPO fieldOther special machines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A method is disclosed for fabricating a preform suitable for use in manufacturing a wide bandwidth multi-mode optical fiber. The method includes steps of employing a liquid phase spray pyrolysis technique for generating silica soot at a high rate, in combination with a non-chlorine containing liquid silica precursor and a refractory, index of refraction raising additive that overcomes the problems inherent in the use of germanium-based chemistry at typical sintering temperatures. The refractory, index of refraction raising additive is preferably comprised of a Group VB element oxide, such as a tantalum oxide. The liquid precursor is preferably comprised of a polymethylsiloxane, such as hexamethyl di-siloxane, octamethylcyclotetrasiloxane (OMCCTS), or tetramethylcyclotetrasiloxane. The step of employing a liquid phase spray pyrolysis technique includes the steps of: (a) merging at least two liquid streams, one comprised of the liquid silica precursor and another one comprised of the liquid silica precursor in combination with the additive; (b) atomizing, spraying and then combusting the merged streams to form a flame that generates silica soot that contains the additive; and (c) var…
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