Multimaterial rod-in-tube coextrusion for robust mid-infrared chalcogenide fibers

Abstract

The development of quantum cascade lasers that span mid-infrared wavelengths necessitate developing new infrared fibers capable of transmitting light in the 3 - 12 micron range. The main material candidates for producing infrared fibers that cover this spectral region are polycrystalline silver halides and glassy tellurium-based chalcogenide glasses. The latter are more chemically stable, and thus represent a superior choice for infrared fibers. We adapt a fiber fabrication methodology that we recently developed for other chalcogenide glasses to tellurium-based chalcogenides. We introduce a novel infrared optical fiber with tellurium-based chalcogenide core and cladding, which is provided with a built-in polymer jacket. We prepare purified Ge-As-Se-Te glasses that are used in extruding a preform. This preform is then thermally drawn continuously in an ambient environment into extended robust infrared fibers that transmit light in the 3 - 12 micron spectral range.