Silicon Hydride Formation in Co-60 Irradiated Optical Fibers

Abstract

ABSTRACTDoping with hydrogen is shown to reduce the sensitivity of optical fibers to form optical attenuation bands as a result of ionizing radiation and to increase the recovery rate in the near infrared after the exposure. In this case silicon hydride is shown to form in low-OH, pure silica fibers upon Co-60 irradiation. The ratio of radiolytically induced changes in silicon hydride to silicon hydroxide is estimated to be greater than ten. The more numerous radiolytic formation of SiH species implies the participation of oxygen vacancy type defects in the radiolytic process.