Compared to electronic sensors, how do optical fibers perform in acidic, alkaline, or saline environments?
Optical fiber sensors, including FBG sensors, generally exhibit excellent performance in acidic, alkaline, or saline environments compared to traditional electronic sensors.
Here’s why:
- Inherent Material Properties: The sensing element of an FBG sensor is typically silica glass, which is chemically inert to many corrosive substances. Unlike electronic sensors that often have metallic components or semiconductor materials exposed, optical fibers do not rely on electrical signals that can be compromised by chemical reactions, short circuits, or insulation breakdown in harsh chemical environments.
- Packaging for Enhanced Protection: For applications in highly corrosive conditions, OFSCN® FBG sensors are often hermetically sealed or encapsulated in chemically resistant materials such as stainless steel, alloy tubes, or specialized polymers. This packaging provides an additional layer of protection, isolating the optical fiber from direct contact with the corrosive medium.
- No Electrical Interference: As optical sensors, FBG sensors are immune to electromagnetic interference (EMI), which is a significant advantage in many industrial settings, including those with corrosive chemicals where electrical safety is paramount.
Here is an example of a packaged FBG sensor designed for robust applications:
You can find more details on packaged FBG strain sensors, which often face such environments, here: OFSCN® FBG Strain Sensor.
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