Pressure sensing using periodically tapered long-period gratings written in photonic crystal fibres

Abstract

This paper reports on the first application of tapered long-period gratings (TLPGs) written in photonic crystal fibres (PCFs) using a cost-effective computer-assisted precision arc-discharge apparatus for conducting direct measurements of hydrostatic pressure up to 180 bar. The developed TLPG-PCF device displays significant potential as a highly sensitive and cost-effective pressure sensor, with a pressure sensitivity of 11.2 pm bar?1. A negligible temperature sensitivity of about 0.3 pm ?C?1 of the sensor output signal was observed within the temperature range from 5 ?C to 65 ?C.