Multi-Parameter Characterization of Optical Fibers for High Power Fiber Lasers

Future High Energy Lasers (HELs) and Directed Energy (DE) weapons will depend on the development of new optical fibers for generating, amplifying, and combining high power optical beams. Modeling, developing, and manufacturing new high-power fibers will, in turn, depend on technologies that can measure the fiber's performance and physical characteristics. Phase 1 demonstrated the feasibility of multiparameter measurement of high power optical fibers in the visible and short-wavelength infrared (SWIR) band using transverse multiwavelength interferometry, interferometric polarimetry, and spontaneous emission tomography with a technology readiness level (TRL) of 4. During Phase 2 an automated turn-key user-ready prototype multiparameter measurement system with be designed, built, and delivered with TRL-6. This prototype system will of quantify the refractive index, geometry, residual stress, and rare-earth dopant distribution of high-power optical fibers from the ultraviolet (UV), across the visible, through the SWIR. This instrument will be useful for engineers developing and manufacturing new optical fibers as well as for engineers designing and building the next generation of high-power optical fiber lasers and amplifiers.