METHOD OF TREATING OPTICAL FIBERS AND MATERIAL FOR USE AS PHASE MODULATORS AND SWITCHES

摘要

A process of poling a silica material such as an optical fiber whereby elect ro- optic non-linearities are induced so that the material can function as a phase modulator and switch in optical communications applications. The poling is effected at an elevated temperature on the order of 450 .degree.C or higher, using an electric field on the order of 80 0 V/.mu.m or higher for a period of time in the range of one minute to several tens of minutes.