Optical Fibers: New Developments

Optical fibers are the technological innovation that has revolutionized the way we communicate. The development of optical fiber technology started from the earliest studies and pioneering experiments on total internal reflection, and passed through several technological advancements, ending with the achievement of modern optical fiber devices and systems for communication and sensing applications. Nowadays, the research and development of optical fiber technology is very wide and diversified. A multitude of aspects are singularly investigated by several researchers with different scientific backgrounds. Topics intensively addressed involve the design and development of novel configurations of optical fibers, the exploitation of novel light manipulation mechanisms with optical fiber platforms, the assessment of novel fabrication processes as well as the realization of optical fiber components and systems for communication and sensing applications. The integration of advanced functional materials with optical fibers is also addressed for the realization of optical fiber sensors and actuators. This book is a collection of contributions by renowned scientists in the optical fiber technology field, covering a wide range of recent progress pertaining to various topics such as special optical fibers, non-linear effects in optical fiber, components and devices for communication systems as well as optical fiber sensors. Inevitably, many aspects are omitted, but each chapter is a representative example of the latest trends and results in a rapidly evolving research scenario. This collection is enriched by a few expert commentaries on selected topics, highlighting recent innovative developments and a future outlook in optical fiber technology.