9633194 Jaluria The material flow processes and the thermal history of the optical fibers are two factors in determining the quality of the fiber in the fiber drawing process. This project investigates innovation drawing control techniques for the fabrication of optical fibers. A systematic experimental study along with a detailed analytical/numerical model will be developed to study the residual stresses, generation and diffusion of defects, fiber diameter control, and the resulting refractive index variation in optical waveguides. Innovative techniques will be developed for drawing three types of preform materials and configurations, including the multi-layer case generally used in practice to validate the developed models. The outcomes of the study are critical to the future needs in fiber fabrication process. The research project has a balance between theory and experiment, and will provide valuable findings for the fiber fabrication industry.
