Strength of optical fibers with organic coatings after effect of ammonia

Abstract

A study of the effect of ammonia vapor and solution on optical fibers in acrylate, polyimide and carbon/polyimide coatings was carried out to determine the degree of degradation of the mechanical characteristics of optical fibers in an alkaline environment. The ultimate strength of the optical fibers was measured by the two-point bending method, and the coating condition after interaction with ammonia was monitored with an optical microscope. A decrease in the tensile strength was recorded for all the examined types of protective-strengthening coatings starting from the first hour of exposure. It was determined that after 7 days of exposure to gaseous and aqueous ammonia the structure of quartz glass is completely destroyed.