Fiber bragg gratings evanescent wave sensors: A view back and recent advancements

Abstract

Among the large number of fiber optic sensors configurations, Fiber Bragg Grating (FBG) based sensors, more than any other particular sensor type, have become widely known and popular within and out the photonics community and seen a rise in their utilization and commercial growth. The most relevant milestones of their technological evolution in thirty years from the discovery of Kenneth Hill in 1978 are overviewed. It also reviews the advances in the area of FBGs evanescent wave sensors as valuable technological platforms for chemical and biological applications. Emphasis will be placed on principles of operation, technological developments and overall performances discussing perspectives and challenges that lie ahead. © 2008 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.