Abstract
This paper describes a simple batch process for fabrication of microlens and microlens array at the end of an optical fiber or an optical fiber bundle using self-photolithography and etching techniques. A photoresist micro-cylinder was exactly formed at the core of the fiber end by exposing an UV light from the other end of the fiber and conventional development, rinse processes. A photoresist microlens was formed by thermal reflowing of the fiber at 170°C for 1 h. A measurement of transmissivity showed that the fabricated photoresist microlens is applicable for a wavelength that is longer than 450 nm. Alternatively, a glass microlens was fabricated at the core of the fiber by dry etching with an SF6 gas using the photoresist microlens as a mask. The focusing of the lensed fiber was confirmed and simulation work showed that the lensed fiber could focus the light with a beam spot of 2 μm, numerical aperture (NA) of 0.285 and a depth of focus of 16 μm.
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Minh, P.N., Ono, T., Haga, Y. et al. Bach Fabrication of Microlens at the end of Optical Fiber using Self-photolithgraphy and Etching Techniques. OPT REV 10, 150–154 (2003). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10043-003-0150-4
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10043-003-0150-4