Advances in Optical Fiber Speckle Sensing: A Comprehensive Review

Abstract

Optical fiber sensors have been studied, developed, and already used in the industry for more than 50 years due to their multiplexing capabilities, lightweight design, compact form factors, and electromagnetic field immunity. The scientific community continuously studies new materials, schemes, and architectures aiming to improve existing technologies. Navigating through diverse sensor technologies, including interferometry, intensity variation, nonlinear effects, and grating-based sensors, fiber specklegram sensors (FSSs) emerge as promising alternatives due to their simplicity and low cost. This review paper, emphasizing the potential of FSSs, contributes insights to the present state and future prospects for FSSs, providing a holistic view of advancements propelling FSSs to new frontiers of innovation. Subsequent sections explore recent research, technological trends, and emerging applications, contributing to a deeper understanding of the intricacies shaping the future of FFS sensor technologies.