Influence of dehydration on strength of silica fibers

Strength and dynamic fatigue behavior of silica optical fibers has been measured in very dry atmosphere. Bare and coated fibers were compared to characterize the influence of the polymer. The stress corrosion susceptibility parameter has been evaluated. Subcritical crack growth effect was found to be different in coated and bare fibers while their strength was found to be close. The strength measurement have been done using a two-point bending set up.