Smoke and Flame Resistant Large Core Plastic Optical Fiber for Highly Efficient Light Distribution in Navy Vessels

The technical problem being addressed in this work is the material selection and development of fabrication processes that will yield a scalable large core plastic optical fiber product that meets the specific flame, smoke, fume and toxicity requirements for use on board US Navy ships. Use of the fire retardant fibers coupled with efficient fiber optic light distribution systems will enable the reduction of the logistical and maintenance requirements for lighting on ships, while improving light quality and distribution for Navy personnel. The scope of work in support of these objectives includes fabrication and testing of alternative fiber materials and component configurations that will maintain optical quality, low cost for the fiber distribution system and the physical properties to support the effective installation of the systems in the fleet. Identification of an optimal product configuration will be followed by process development and pilot production for verification and field testing.