Fiber Microstructure Sensors Based on Focused Ion Beam Technology

Abstract

Optical fiber sensors have evolved over the years in many different directions. One particular direction dictated by necessity is miniaturization and the creation of micro- and nano-optical fiber sensors. Many techniques now exist that allow the micro-structuring of optical fiber. One in particular is focused ion beam technology. This chapter aims to introduce this technique and present the latest work on the application of focused ion beam to optical fiber micromachining, more specifically, the fabrication of optical fiber microstructure sensors such as micro-gratings and micro-cavities.