Optical Fiber Keeps Data Safe Even When Twisted or Bent

University of Bath (U.K.)

January 10, 2023

A new optical fiber developed by researchers at the U.K.'s University of Bath uses the mathematics of topology to protect light even as it is twisted or bent. By applying the principles of topology, the researchers were able to ensure a robust network that can overcome distortions in the fiber. Their fiber consists of several light-guiding cores connected in a spiral, which allows light to hop between the cores but stay within the edge due to the topological design. University of Bath's Anton Souslov said, "Using our fiber, light is less influenced by environmental disorder than it would be in an equivalent system lacking topological design. By adopting optical fibers with topological design, researchers will have the tools to preempt and forestall signal-degrading effects by building inherently robust photonic systems."