Fiber Bragg gratings

Abstract

The properties of fiber Bragg gratings are investigated theoretically and experimentally. The effects of experimental parameters on grating characteristics are modeled for both uniform and non-uniform gratings. Particular emphasis is placed on the formation of fiber Bragg gratings tilted at 45 degrees with respect to the fiber axis in single mode fibers. In this case, light is coupled out of the fiber in a surface normal manner. Several fabrication methods for producing tilted fiber gratings are explored and characterized. The most efficient gratings are obtained with a prism coupling technique. Experimental tilted grating performance is shown to be in good agreement with the predictions of a two-dimensional coupled mode theory. Fiber gratings are also used to demonstrate an Er/Nd co-doped fiber laser. This dual wavelength laser is formed with a common cavity and common gain medium.