Addition of polydimethylsiloxane in FOS technology for sustainable sensing

Fiber optic sensors are one of the most competent, functional and accessible types of sensors that can be applied for diverse purposes and it delivers sustainable and effective results for most of the cases. It is frequently used to sense, measure and evaluate the physical and chemical properties such as microbending, strains, vibrations, accelerations, linear and rotary position, temperatures, pressures, determination of pH, fluid material´s refractive index, checking of long pipeline´s status etc. Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) is a special form of silicone elastomer or silicone rubber and it has very realistic and particular advantages as a diaphragm or coating material for fiber optic sensing technology for improved, more precise and steady output. This paper presents a comprehensive analysis of prior FOS technology with various coating materials for enhanced environmental application. A dedicated part of this paper also explains the exclusive characteristics of PDMS material and suitability for FOS coating. Potential future scope of PDMS material in FOS technology is discussed in the final section of this paper.