Theoretical analysis on polarization characteristics of spun birefringent optical fiber based on an analytical Jones matrix model

Abstract

In practical applications, the analysis and control on polarization state are important. The spun birefringent optical fiber has diverse polarization characteristics. It can be used to manufacture linear polarization maintaining (PM) fibers, polarization rotators, retarders, and arbitrary state of polarization maintaining fibers. To understand the diversity of fiber, an analytical model of spun birefringent optical fiber based on the Jones matrix is established. The model is a general model which could explain why the fiber has so many polarization behaviors. A deep analysis shows two key parameters control the model of the spun birefringent optical fiber. When we change the two parameters, the model will degenerate into a fiber-optic rotator, a retarder, or a polarization maintaining device. According to the approximate models, the property of devices based on spun birefringent optical fiber can be analyzed and optimized exactly. The new theoretical model has a clear physical meaning and brings conveniences for the designing sensors, filters, polarization rotators, wave plates, and new polarization maintaining fibers.