A Self-Referencing Intensity Based Polymer Optical Fiber Sensor for Liquid Detection Articles uri icon

publication date

  • August 2009

start page

  • 6446

end page

  • 6455

issue

  • 8

volume

  • 9

International Standard Serial Number (ISSN)

  • 1424-3210

Electronic International Standard Serial Number (EISSN)

  • 1424-8220

abstract

  • A novel self-referencing fiber optic intensity sensor based on bending losses of a partially polished polymer optical fiber (POF) coupler is presented. The coupling ratio (K) depends on the external liquid in which the sensor is immersed. It is possible to distinguish between different liquids and to detect their presence. Experimental results for the most usual liquids found in industry, like water and oil, are given. K value increases up to 10% from the nominal value depending on the liquid. Sensor temperature dependence has also been studied for a range from 25 ºC (environmental condition) to 50 ºC. Any sector requiring liquid level measurements in flammable atmospheres can benefit from this intrinsically safe technology.