Research Opportunity Number: CHE-05

Project Title: Optimizing Fiber Optic Fusion Splicing for Next-Generation Lasers

Project Summary: Optical fibers made of thin, flexible glass have recently revolutionized fiber-optic communications and are integral components in fiber lasers that are used for research. Different optical fibers can be joined together to build and design novel laser systems using a technique called fusion splicing. 

This technique, if correctly optimized and applied, can create a strong connection with almost no loss of light transmission at the join. Some fibers, such as photonic crystal fibers, feature a unique structured pattern inside the glass that is key for enabling next-generation fiber lasers. However, these fibers can be very challenging to fusion splice without melting the special structure within the glass, and this has limited their widespread adoption in custom-built lasers for research. 

The goal of this project is to experimentally determine the correct fusion splicing technique and parameters necessary to successfully splice photonic crystal fibers with maximal strength but minimal optical losses of light transmission. 

You will learn how optical fibers transmit light, how to work with and handle optical fibers, and how fusion splicing of optical fibers works. You will also learn how to optimize fusion splice procedures using an industry-grade fiber fusion splicing instrument to achieve the goal of creating high-quality custom spliced fiber assemblies.

Student Roles and Responsibilities: The student will be responsible for learning how optical fibers work, how fusion fiber splicing works, and then learning to optimize custom fusion splice settings to successfully splice and connectorize or end-cap optical fibers without loss of optical transmission. 

The student is responsible for documenting their work in a laboratory notebook (provided) and communicating with their mentor at all stages. The student is also responsible for keeping their workstation and the fusion splicer clean at all times; this is important to prevent a sharps hazard from loose small glass pieces or debris contamination in the splicer.

Additional Considerations: Fiber optic fusion splicing involves the use of a commercial splicing system that cannot be operated unless all safety lids and latches are closed so there is no exposure of any hazard to the user. No lasers or electrical hazards are involved in the process. The duration of this project will be held during normal business hours.

Department/Institute: Department of Chemistry

Participation Dates: June 30 – August 15, 2025

Stipend Offered: $0

Number of Internships Available: 0-1

Application Deadline: March 15, 2025, midnight Eastern Daylight Time