Multicore microstructured optical fibre for sensing applications

In this contribution we present the sensing capabilities of a novel N-path Mach–Zehnder interferometer (MZI) that relies on a multicore microstructured optical fibre (MC-MOF) connected between two sections of standard single mode fibre. The modal properties of the MC-MOF structure are analysed experimentally by measuring near field profiles. The dependence of the N-path MC-MOF MZI sensitivity on temperature, tensile strain and bending is investigated. The results suggest that such an interferometer is a good candidate for a tensile strain or bending sensor.