Ultra-low-loss fluoride glass optical fibres for the future global network. The transmission loss of silica optical fibres limits the capacity of the global internet. Fluoride glass fibres have the potential of reducing the loss by more than 10 times. This project aims to overcome two of the technological challenges of the ultra-low-loss fluoride fibre optics network: (1) commercial-scale manufacturing of improved fibres and (2) signal amplification at 2.3μm. By generating new fundamental knowle ....Ultra-low-loss fluoride glass optical fibres for the future global network. The transmission loss of silica optical fibres limits the capacity of the global internet. Fluoride glass fibres have the potential of reducing the loss by more than 10 times. This project aims to overcome two of the technological challenges of the ultra-low-loss fluoride fibre optics network: (1) commercial-scale manufacturing of improved fibres and (2) signal amplification at 2.3μm. By generating new fundamental knowledge on rare-earth transitions and glass crystal formation, expected outcomes include innovative fibre fabrication methods optimised for space manufacturing. Benefits will include enhanced internet capacity with lower energy requirements, and opportunities for sovereign capability in fluoride fibre fabrication in Australia.Read moreRead less
Industry Laureate Fellowships - Grant ID: IL230100116
Funder
Australian Research Council
Funding Amount
$3,359,464.00
Summary
Breaking through the manufacturing ‘glass ceiling’ for ZBLAN glass fibres. This project aims to develop innovative methods to improve the purity and manufacture scale of fluoride glass (ZBLAN) optical fibres to deliver faster and more efficient internet. This project expects to produce ZBLAN fibres with lower light loss than the best fibres to date by integrating innovations in glass science, materials purification, process automation and space manufacturing. Expected outcomes include industrial ....Breaking through the manufacturing ‘glass ceiling’ for ZBLAN glass fibres. This project aims to develop innovative methods to improve the purity and manufacture scale of fluoride glass (ZBLAN) optical fibres to deliver faster and more efficient internet. This project expects to produce ZBLAN fibres with lower light loss than the best fibres to date by integrating innovations in glass science, materials purification, process automation and space manufacturing. Expected outcomes include industrial scale production of ZBLAN fibres with 10 times better performance than existing production. The project should provide innovative new manufacturing methods and improved economic and social prosperity by increasing the availability of ZBLAN for a wealth of applications touching many aspects of Australian lives.Read moreRead less