Structured fibre lasers

Photonic crystal fibres and air-clad fibres have opened up unprecedented opportunities in laser-based technologies, including defence, material processing and sensing. The presence of air holes benefits sensing and permits the general introduction of materials for applications as diverse as switching and modulation. Of particular note are air clad fibre lasers, which are an increasingly preferred alternative to polymer clad fibre lasers for high power operation. The ability to incorporate gratings, including DFB structures, into these fibres paves the way for future all-fibre topologies where bulk optics need not be necessary. However, significant research effort remains to ensure that this potential is fulfilled. A review of the work carried out at the OFTC highlighting their properties and potential is presented.