Abstract

The technology for mechanically splicing optical fibers has developed substantially during the last two years. The advent of splices that grip directly to the glass fiber and use index-matching gel to environmentally seal the fiber have made mechanical splicing much faster and easier. The primary concerns with these types of splices are the effect of applying direct pressure to the fiber to provide the required tensile strength and the ability of the gel to actually seal the splice to prevent the entry of moisture. Extreme testing must be done to address some of these concerns.

© 1991 Optical Society of America