Abstract

Plastic optical fiber (POF) is inferior in light transmitting characteristics compared with commercial glass optical fiber (GOF). But POF is more flexible and can have a larger diameter than GOF; thus it is easier to connect and handle. There have been a number of proposals to use POF in sensors, controllers, etc.¹ The present POF can withstand temperatures only up to 125°C, which is not enough for use in car engine chambers or close to heating equipment. We have been studying heat-resistant plastic optical fiber (HPOF) and have developed a new HPOF. The core is made from an ester-based thermosetting resin which is molded by casting, and the cladding is made from a fluorine-containing resin. The transmission loss, temperature resistance, and relationship of transmission loss and bending radius were evaluated.

© 1989 Optical Society of America