Bulk Scattering and IR Absorption Measurements on Potential Low-Loss Glasses

The preparation of glasses and optical fibers with lower optical losses than fused silica remains an elusive goal. Lower intrinsic losses can theoretically be achieved in glasses which have lower Rayleigh scattering and/or longer wavelength transmission than fused silica. Bulk samples of a number of candidate low-loss glasses including ZBLAN, BeF sub 2-based glass, calcium aluminates and multi-component Silicates have been prepared. Light scattering and IR absorption measurements have been performed on these samples. A comparison is offered between the presently achievable loss levels and the theoretical predictions of minimum loss.