Controlling of symmetric and asymmetric mode coupling in long-period fiber gratings singe-side induced by long-pulse CO2 laser

We report a simple fabricating approach to control the mode couplings in long-period fiber gratings (LPFGs) through side exposing fiber to long-pulse-10.6-μm laser from a cheap, internally modulated CO2 tube. By tuning focused-spot size on fibers, not only circularly symmetric mode coupling but also asymmetric mode couplings can be effectively achieved. Simulation of mode profiles in grating cross-section with Finite Element Method (FEM), and LPFG-cladding etching experiment with hydrofluoric acid (HF), support our explanation that asymmetric mode coupling in LPFGs depends on local refractive-index (RI) change within an azimuthally thin cladding layer, resulted from large-spot method induced deep melt flow on fiber surface during CO2 laser irradiation.