Mechanical properties of microstructured high-purity silica fibers

We have studied the effect of drawing conditions and process environment on the mechanical strength of microstructured optical fibers. The results indicate that, even at reduced drawing temperatures, high-strength fibers with few “weak” points can be produced provided that the walls of the holes in the preform are sufficiently clean. The effects of air humidity and different liquids in the holes on the strength of microstructured fibers are shown to be similar to those for standard fibers.