Development of the technology for the metallization of optical fibers by chemical process

• Grant number: 01/08439-4
• Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Innovative Research in Small Business - PIPE
• Start date: November 01, 2001
• End date: March 31, 2005
• Field of knowledge: Physical Sciences and Mathematics - Chemistry - Physical-Chemistry
• Principal Investigator: Alexander Flacker
• Grantee: Alexander Flacker
• Company: Optolink Indústria e Comércio Sociedade Ltda
• City: Campinas

Abstract

The hermetic encapsulation of optoelectronic components requires the use of metal solders in their interiors. In these encapsulations laser diodes and photo-detectors are used which have to be coupled to optical fiber which is composed of melted quartz. In order for the fibers to be attached by means of the solder process it is necessary that they have metal deposited on their surface. The technique of vacuum metallization is the most commonly used, but its cost is high. This project aims to demonstrate the viability of the deposition of metallic layers on optical fibers by chemical process at low cost. The process to be used will be an adaptation of a technique already mastered for the metallization of vitreous ceramic substrates. This study involves stages of superficial modification of the fiber (melted silica) through the use of watery buffer solutions. Into the structure modified in this way will be incrusted small nuclei of palladium metal which will be used as a support for the chemical reduction of the nickel which it is intended to deposit. Following this, on the nickel, an electrolytic thickening of metals will be carried out. These metals will enable the soldability of optical fiber in optoelectronic encapsulations. Having demonstrated the viability of the project in this first phase, the company embarked on the second stage of the work, which consists of preparing a chemical laboratory for the handling of the raw materials needed for this technology. (AU)