Fluorescence-based temperature sensing using erbium-doped optical fibers with 1.48 μm pumping

Temperature sensing using 1.54 μm fluorescence at the transition between the energy levels4I15/2 (ground state) and4I13/2 generated in an erbium-doped fiber with 1.48 μm pumping is proposed. The fluorescence has a peculiar spectral profile that possesses two peaks around 1.530 μm and 1.552 μm wavelengths. The temperature-dependent fluorescence is investigated in the temperature range between -50°C and 90°C. The power ratio between the two peaks increases with an increase in temperature. The sensitivity of the ratio is 0.007/°C on average in the measured temperature range. The total fluorescence power and the absorption loss at λ = 1480 nm in the fiber decrease as the temperature increases. Optical fiber temperature sensing immune from the fluctuation in pumping power can be performed using the peak power ratio and/or the absorption loss.