We propose a one-dimensional model governing the propagation of heat waves in an optical fiber (the >fiber fuse>). The model has solutions in the form of high temperature localized waves moving towards the input end of the fiber, fueled by the laser power. These waves can be ignited by local heating at any point along the fiber. The effect of such a wave is irreversible damage to the fiber core. The phenomenon was observed earlier by Hand and Russell, when locally heating a fiber through which CW light of modest intensity was propagating. This induced self-destruction of the optical fiber core. © 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

N.A. acknowledges support from the Australian Research Council and University of Lille. The work of J.M.S.C. was supported by the M.E.y C. under contract FIS2006-03376.

Peer Reviewed