Abstract
Optical backscatter reflectometry (OBR) is a method for the interrogation of Rayleigh scattering occurring in each section of an optical fiber, resulting in a single-fiber-distributed sensor with sub-millimeter spatial resolution. The use of high-scattering fibers, doped with MgO-based nanoparticles in the core section, provides a scattering increase which can overcome 40 dB. Using a configuration-labeled Scattering-Level Multiplexing (SLMux), we can arrange a network of high-scattering fibers to perform a simultaneous scan of multiple fiber sections, therefore extending the OBR method from a single fiber to multiple fibers. In this work, we analyze the performance and boundary limits of SLMux, drawing the limits of detection of N-channel SLMux, and evaluating the performance of scattering-enhancement methods in optical fibers.
Highlights
Optical fiber sensors have been consolidated in the past decades, and they are an established technology in several applicative fields [1,2,3,4]
We identify three regions: on the left and right parts of the curve, the is limited by ∆A and A, respectively, showing a saturation effect; in the inner region, the maximum maximum length is limited by ΔA and A, respectively, showing a saturation effect; in the inner region, length has a linear dependence on both impairments
The Scattering-Level Multiplexing (SLMux) configuration finds its best application in biomedical applications, where the constraints on fiber arrangement for sensing are the strictest due to the requirement for invasiveness and bending radii
Summary
Optical fiber sensors have been consolidated in the past decades, and they are an established technology in several applicative fields [1,2,3,4]. The key advantage of optical fiber sensors, with respect to other sensing technologies, such as piezoelectric, microelectromechanical systems (MEMS), or other mechanical or electronic sensors, is the possibility of interrogating multiple sensors placed upon a single fiber [2,3]. In this case, a single optical fiber sensing system can host several sensors, and it is possible to perform a simultaneous detection of hundreds [2], thousands [5], or even up to a million sensing points [6]. We define the act of allocating a single optical fiber cable to a plurality of sensors, and disambiguating their detection by means of a “diversity” feature
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
