Advances in Tapered Optical Fiber Sensor Structures: From Conventional to Novel and Emerging

Abstract

Optical fiber sensors based on tapered optical fiber (TOF) structure have attracted a considerable amount of attention from researchers due to the advantages of simple fabrication, high stability, and diverse structures, and have great potential for applications in many fields such as physics, chemistry, and biology. Compared with conventional optical fibers, TOF with their unique structural characteristics significantly improves the sensitivity and response speed of fiber-optic sensors and broadens the application range. This review presents an overview of the latest research status and characteristics of fiber-optic sensors and TOF sensors. Then, the working principle of TOF sensors, fabrication schemes of TOF structures, novel TOF structures in recent years, and the growing emerging application areas are described. Finally, the development trends and challenges of TOF sensors are prospected. The objective of this review is to convey novel perspectives and strategies for the performance optimization and design of TOF sensors based on fiber-optic sensing technologies.

A portable biosensing system using tapered fiber sensors utilizing mode interference

“…On many occasions, these techniques have limitations in cost, sensitivity, biohazard wastes, etc. Due to the higher sensing potential and rapid responsiveness of the tapered optical fiber sensor (TOFS), bi-tapered fibers are emerging as a better technology in sensing applications [1,2].…”

Sensitivity of a tapered fiber optic displacement sensor with S-shaped structure

“…Various types of optical fiber-based displacement sensors have been investigated in recent decades, especially those based on loss of intensity due to bending. Various structures have been proposed and developed, including various types of optical fibers, various fiber thinning techniques, as well as interferometric measurement techniques [1][2][3][4][5]. Among these devices, S-frame tapered fiber optic sensors have shown promise due to their rapid response, immunity to electronic noise, low cost, and ease of manufacture.…”