Axial Micro-Strain Sensor Based on FM-FBG via Dual-Mode ML-FMF in Sensor Networks

An in-fiber axial micro-strain sensor based on a Few Mode Fiber Bragg Grating (FM-FBG) is proposed and experimentally characterized. This FM-FBG is in inscribed in a multi-layer few-mode fiber (ML-FMF), and could acquire the change of the axial strain along fibers, which depends on the transmission dips. On account of the distinct dual-mode property, a good stability of this sensor is realized. The two transmission dips could have the different sensing behaviors. Both the propagation characteristics and operation principle of such a sensor are demonstrated in detail. High sensitivity of the FM-FBG, ~4 pm/μe and ~4.5 pm/μe within the range of 0 μe - 1456 μe, is experimentally achieved. FM-FBGs could be easily scattered along one fiber. So this sensor may have a great potential of being used in sensor networks.