title: Mode conversion in rectangular-core optical fibers.
abstract: Mode conversion from the fundamental to a higher-order mode in a rectangular-core optical fiber is accomplished by applying pressure with the edge of a flat plate. Modal analysis of the near and far field images of the fiber's transmitted beam determines the purity of the converted mode. Mode conversion reaching 75% of the targeted higher-order mode is achieved using this technique. Conversion from a higher-order mode back to the fundamental mode is also demonstrated with comparable efficiency. Propagation of a higher-order mode in a rectangular-core fiber allows for better thermal management and bend-loss immunity than conventional circular-core fibers, extending the power-handling capabilities of optical fibers.
authors.affiliation: Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, L-592, P.O. Box 808, Livermore, California 94551, USA. bullington1@llnl.gov
authors.forename: Amber L
authors.initials: AL
authors.lastname: Bullington
authors.forename: Paul H
authors.initials: PH
authors.lastname: Pax
authors.forename: Arun K
authors.initials: AK
authors.lastname: Sridharan
authors.forename: John E
authors.initials: JE
authors.lastname: Heebner
authors.forename: Michael J
authors.initials: MJ
authors.lastname: Messerly
authors.forename: Jay W
authors.initials: JW
authors.lastname: Dawson