Mode-division and spatial-division optical fiber sensors

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to provide a comprehensive review of mode-division and spatial-division optical fiber sensors, mainly encompassing interferometers and advanced fiber gratings. Compared with their single-mode counterparts, which have a very mature field with many highly successful commercial applications, multimodal configurations have developed more recently with advances in fiber device fabrication and novel mode control devices. Multimodal fiber sensors considerably widen the range of possible sensing modalities and provide opportunities for increased accuracy and performance in conventional fiber sensing applications. Recent progress in these areas is attested by sharp increases in the number of publications and a rise in technology readiness level. In this paper, we first review the fundamental operating principles of such multimodal optical fiber sensors. We then report on the theoretical formalism and simulation procedures that allow for the prediction of the spectral changes and sensing response of these sensors. Finally, we discuss some recent cutting-edge applications, mainly in the physical and (bio)chemical fields. This paper provides both a step-by-step guide relevant for non-specialists entering in the field and a comprehensive review of advanced techniques for more skilled practitioners.