INFRARED TRANSMITTING FIBER OPTICAL WAVEGUIDE EXTRUDED FROM HALIDES

摘要

There is disclosed a fiber optic waveguide which is particularly suited for infrared radiation transmission at extended wavelengths. The core of the waveguide is fabricated from heavy ionic compounds selected from metal halides in order to achieve such extended infrared transparency. While it is impossible to prepare these materials into optical fibers using conventional fiber drawing techniques, the present invention teaches how such materials may be prepared into optical fibers using an extrusion process at elevated temperatures and high pressures.