Optical fiber sensor system for remote refractive index measurement based on Fresnel reflection using an OTDR

Abstract

In this work, we present an optical fiber sensor system for remote refractive index measurement using the optical time domain reflectometry technique as an interrogation method, and investigate the refractive index sensibility of the sensor system in detail. The sensor system operates based on Fresnel reflection at the fiber’s end that is cleaved as a vertical planar surface. Surrounding refractive index from a long distance away can be measured easily through utilizing this sensor system. The experimental setup is simple and easy to handle. Experimental results show the feasibility of the remote measurement of refractive index. The range of this measurement can reach ~30km, moreover, to ensure its repeatability and accuracy, we retest the same sample for many times, some of which are artificially applied with disturbance. Lastly we make a comparative analysis to certify that the sensor system has a good potential to remote practical applications.