Role of silica densification in the performance of optical connectors

The performance of today's fiber optic communication network demands high reliability of optical fiber systems in general, and optical fiber connectors in particular, In this study we address the effects of the polishing on the surface of optical fiber and consequently on the reliability of the optical connectors. It is found that high surface stresses (compression) are produced during the optical connector endface polishing. Molecular dynamics computer simulations of silica ere performed and it was confirmed that substantial permanent densification of silica under compression at room temperature without fracture exists. Based on these simulations and previous experimental and theoretical results, it is proposed that the densified subsurface damaged layer is responsible for the increase in reflectance in optical connectors.