Multimode all-fiber quasi-distributed refractometer sensor array and cross-talk mitigation.

The analysis and design of a quasi-distributed multimode fiber refractometer array is presented. The main challenge in the design of a practical quasi-distributed sensor array proved to be in mitigation of otherwise pronounced cross-talk effects among the individual sensors in the network. The cross-talk effects originate from mode filtering properties and the strong mode excitation dependence on the multimode refractometer sensors that constitute the array. The introduction of mode conditioning based on fiber mode filters and mode mixers effectively reduced the cross talk to a negligible level while providing the desired sensor response at acceptable collateral losses to the network. A comprehensive experimental analysis was carried out to provide detailed insight into the multimode sensor array behavior and to obtain data necessary for an overall and effective network design.