Effect of mechanical stresses on the transmission of fiberoptic waveguides

An analysis is made of the effect of mechanical stresses on the optical characteristics of the fiber material within the limits of the photoelasticity theory. On exposure to compressive stresses, the refractive index of the glass alters, its value increasing from the center to the edge of the fiber, which results in the escape of some of the radiation from the waveguide. The calculated and experimental dependences of the components of the waveguide transmission coefficient on the applied stress are presented. The dependences of the transmission on the static stress are obtained for glass and organic waveguides. The qualitative pattern of change in the fiber characteristics when subjected to mechanical stresses is illustrated.