Applications of Nonlinear Fiber Optics

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My research focuses on fiber optics technology. We achieve enhanced nonlinear effects in fibers by making structures in the fibers. Then, based on time and frequency features of four wave mixing and stimulated scattering; we develop novel fiber-based devices such as ultra-narrow linewidth filters, low-noise lasers, optical random number generators and entangled fiber laser sources. They offer high precision, compact and cost-effective solutions for metrology, sensors and fiber communications. In quantum communications, a single photon source and detector are often used; therefore, the communication signal is limited by the frequency and phase noise of the optical signal. It is very important to develop a narrow linewidth optical filter (kHz range) and a laser source with ultra-low phase and frequency noise (unavailable commercially) to ensure long-distance quantum communication. The optical entangled source is the key for secure communications. ***For health, environmental and structural safety monitoring, different variables are often inter-related. For example, temperature is a parameter that impacts many others, and it is often impossible to use multiple sensors and their associated wires in the same location due to confined space. Using nonlinear fiber optics, we will also develop high-accuracy sensors, enabled by in-fiber structures with one sensing probe to realize measurements of two to three parameters at once. ******Another important application of nonlinear fiber optics is in the instrumentation of distributed fiber sensors based on nonlinear light scattering in optical fibers. These will allow temperature and strain (static) and acoustic waves (dynamic) to be detected over long distances and large areas. This will be the first time that static and dynamic monitoring will be achieved at the same time and in the same location. Optical fibers can "hear" underwater acoustic waves and identify abnormal sounds in gas, oil and water flow, resulting from pipeline cracks and deformation. By identifying the crack/deformation locations at earlier stages, we can reduce or prevent environmental contamination resulting from leakages in oil, gas or sewage water. Strain and temperature monitoring allows safety and security monitoring of highway bridges, dams, nuclear reactors, tunnels, high-speed railway tracks, critical areas, power generators and fiber communication links; all extremely relevant to Canada as natural resources represent our dominant economic activities. ******In proposed program, we design and develop sensor, laser and instruments, and then work with collaborators in industry and academia to modify the system towards applications. This gives our research the largest impact and provides HQP with an opportunity to build an international network of industrial and academic contacts, which make them well-positioned to make an impact in both industrial R&D and academic research. *** *** *****