Grating formation in pure silica-core fibers

Abstract
Strong grating formation in pure silica-core fibers by use of 193-nm ArF-laser radiation is reported. Unsaturated refractive-index changes of Δn0.3×10-3 were observed in nontreated fiber, and changes of Δn0.5×10-3 were observed in fibers with a high hydroxyl concentration. Possible mechanisms of photosensitivity in pure silica-core fibers are discussed.