Simple all-microstructured-optical-fiber interferometer built via fusion splicing.

We report a compact and stable all-microstructured-optical-fiber interferometer built with two fusion splices separated a few centimeters from each other. The air-holes of the fiber are intentionally collapsed in the vicinity of the splices. This broadens the propagating optical mode, allowing coupling of two modes in the section between the splices. A truly sinusoidal interference pattern was observed from 800 nm to 1600 nm with fringe visibility reaching 80%. The fringe spacing was inversely proportional to the distance between the splices. The potential of the device for sensing applications is demonstrated.