U-shaped optical fiber sensor based on multiple total internal reflections in heterodyne interferometry

In this paper, an optical fiber sensor based on multiple total internal reflections (MTIRs) in heterodyne interferometry is proposed. With the optical fiber sensor the phase shift difference due to the multiple total internal reflections effect between the p- and s-polarizations is measured by using heterodyne interferometry. Substituting the phase shift difference into Fresnel's equations, the refractive index for the tested medium can be calculated. The resolution of the sensor can reach 1.6×10−6 refractive index unit (RIU). The optical fiber sensor could be valuable for chemical, biological and biochemical sensing. It has some merits, such as, high resolution and stability, high sensitivity, high resolution and real-time measurement.