Integration of polymer elements at the end of optical fibers by free-radical photopolymerization

In this article, we report a method of free-radical photopolymerization on the top end of a single-mode optical fiber. The process is very simple to c arry out and uses the visible light guided in the fiber. It permits one to produce, on the fiber end, a micronic, polymer tip which may be viewed as a n extension of the fiber core and whose optical properties improve the intr insic capability of the fiber, particularly in terms of efficiency of coupl ing with a laser source. Formation of the tip is explained by self-guiding of the light within the material and photophysical response of the material . (C) 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.