Specialty optical fibres and cables – synthesis, structure, and applications

Abstract

Specialty optical fibres are types of optical fibres designed and developed not only for telecom but for various critical applications. In this chapter, different methods are shown for the synthesis of the specialty optical fibres, including modified chemical vapour deposition (MCVD) and plasma-enhanced chemical vapour deposition, solution-doping in conjunction with MCVD, direct nanoparticle deposition technology, and the molten-core technique. For applications in different regions of the electromagnetic spectrum, the material’s structure is shifted from the silica-based core and cladding to mid-infrared transparent media, including chalcogenides, fluoride glasses, and crystalline semiconductors. Different structural designs of specialty optical fibres are also reviewed. The specialty fibres for smart natural textiles and clothing were also discussed. The applications are many but limited here to kW-class fibre lasers and sensing applications, including different wearable applications. © 2025 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.