Fiber Optic Splice

We propose to develop a new fiber optic splice that is designed for military and aerospace avionic applications. The purpose of the Phase I program is to demonstrate the feasibility of our proposed approach. The new fiber optic splice is intended to meet stringent military and avionic requirements and provide long-term, reliable optical connectivity for repaired fiber optic cables. The new splice will meet or exceed these technical requirements: a) wide operating temperature range (-75 to +200 °C or -40 to +120 °C), b) low optical insertion loss (< 0.5 dB), c) high mechanical strength, d) small splicing equipment foot print, and e) elimination of spark hazards associated with splicing equipment. Emphasis will be placed on developing a thermally balanced splice that can maintain a low insertion loss in a temperature-cycled environment.