Radiation-hardened fiber is a type of fiber optic cable designed to withstand radiation exposure without suffering severe performance degradation. This type of cable is often used in aerospace, defense, and medical fields, as well as other areas where radiation exposure is a concern.
The core and cladding materials of radiation-hardened fiber are designed to recover their intrinsic value of attenuation coefficient, or the amount of light lost in transmission over a given distance, within an acceptable time period after exposure to a radiation pulse. This is important for maintaining the desired level of optical performance, as well as for ensuring the safety of personnel and equipment.
Radiation-hardened fiber also features a higher refractive index than standard fiber, which reduces the amount of radiation reflected back towards the source. This further reduces the risk of radiation exposure and subsequent damage. Additionally, these cables are often made with reinforced outer jackets and connectors to further protect against the effects of radiation.
In addition to providing superior protection against radiation, radiation-hardened fiber also offers a number of other advantages over standard fiber. This type of cable is more reliable and requires less maintenance, as it is less likely to suffer from the effects of aging. It can also be used in harsher environments, as its design is resistant to extreme temperatures, humidity, and other environmental factors.
Overall, radiation-hardened fiber is an important component of any system requiring protection from the effects of radiation. By providing superior performance and protection, these cables can ensure the safety of personnel and equipment, as well as reduce the risk of costly repairs and downtime.
