Fiber Bragg Gratings Enable Ultrasonic Sensing in Extreme Heat, Opening New Industrial Monitoring Possibilities
Researchers at CEA-List have developed a novel method for performing ultrasonic measurements at very high temperatures using specialized optical fibers. This advancement could significantly improve structural health monitoring and non-destructive testing in harsh industrial environments like nuclear reactors, aerospace systems, and high-temperature manufacturing.
The core innovation involves the use of Fiber Bragg Gratings (FBGs) inscribed into regenerated optical fibers. Unlike standard FBGs, which degrade above 300°C, these regenerated gratings can withstand temperatures exceeding 1,000°C. The technique allows the fiber to function as a stable ultrasonic sensor by detecting high-frequency acoustic waves through shifts in the wavelength of light reflected by the grating.
Key technical details include:
* Sensor Fabrication: The regenerated FBGs are created by first writing a standard grating into a hydrogen-loaded fiber, then subjecting it to an intense thermal annealing process. This "regeneration" step erases the original grating and forms a new, highly robust chemical structure within the fiber core.
* Measurement Principle: An ultrasonic wave striking the fiber locally alters its refractive index and physical length. This induces a rapid, minute shift in the Bragg wavelength of the reflected light, which is detected by a high-speed interferometric demodulation system.
* Proven Performance: In laboratory tests, the sensors have successfully detected ultrasonic frequencies up to 5 MHz while operating at 800°C. This demonstrates their capability for high-resolution acoustic emission monitoring and active ultrasonic testing (like pitch-catch measurements) in extreme conditions.
The primary industrial implication is the ability to install permanent, in-situ sensor networks inside critical high-temperature components. This enables continuous monitoring for cracks, corrosion, or material degradation without requiring shutdowns for manual inspection. The technology is seen as a pivotal step toward smarter, safer, and more efficient asset management in energy and advanced manufacturing sectors.