Atmospheric aging and surface degradation in As2S3 fibers in relation with suspended-core profile

• We study and prove the optical aging of chalcogenide glass.
• We probed the surface degradation upon aging.
• We unequivocally confirmed a detrimental impact of molecular water.
• We confirmed a hydration reaction within glass material.
• We showed diffusion of structural aging in the volume of glass material.

Microstructured optical fibers (MOF) can be seen as next generation fiber of significance in advancing the compact optics because of its excellent compatibility in integrated optics. However, the degradation of their physicochemical properties limits their efficiency and lifetime. Atmospheric moisture is responsible for the degradation of amorphous systems especially chalcogenide glasses. In the light of previously reported studies, in order to clarify the aging process continuously evolving in sulfide microstructured optical fiber over time, a detailed investigation of this phenomenon has been conducted. The time-dependent transmission and glass chemical deterioration have been studied for As2S3 MOF with regard to their exposure to different atmospheric conditions. Results show a substantial impact of atmospheric moisture through an interaction with the glass network. Significant improvement has been registered by storing the fibers under dry atmosphere.