Solarisation Resistant Fibres for DUV Applications

Most spectroscopic applications with fibre optics have been restricted to wavelength ranges above 230nm because standard silica fibres with an undoped core and fluorine doped cladding are frequently damaged by exposure to deep UV light (below 230nm).

This solarisation effect is induced by the formation of “colour centers” with an absorbance band of 214nm. These colour centers are formed when impurities (like Cl) exist in the core fibre material and form unbound electron pairs on the Si atom, which are affected by the deep UV radiation.

Not long ago, solarisation resistant fibres which were hydrogen loaded, were developed (UVI). The disadvantage for these fibres is the limitation on smaller fibre diameters and limited lifetime, caused by the H2 outgassing from the fibre.

Recently, with the availability of a modified core preform, a new fibre became available (UVM). This fibre provides longterm stability at 30-40 % transmission (for 215nm).

All fibre optic probes, cables and bundles with core diameters of 100µm, 200µm, 400µm, 600µm and 800µm can be delivered with solarisation resistant fibres. All assemblies are pre-solarised for an 8 hrs period to have a constant transmission of 30-40% @ 215nm.

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