Optimization of long-range BOTDA sensors with high resolution using first-order bi-directional Raman amplification

Opt Express. 2011 Feb 28;19(5):4444-57. doi: 10.1364/OE.19.004444.

Abstract

In this paper we perform an optimization of Brillouin optical time-domain analysis (BOTDA) sensors for achieving high resolution over long sensing ranges using distributed Raman amplification. By employing an optimized first-order bi-directional Raman amplification scheme and combining high-power fiber-Raman lasers and Fabry-Pérot lasers with low relative-intensity-noise (RIN), we demonstrate distributed sensing over 120 km of standard single-mode fiber with 2 meter spatial resolution and with a strain/temperature accuracy of 45με/2.1°C respectively.

MeSH terms

  • Amplifiers, Electronic*
  • Equipment Design
  • Equipment Failure Analysis
  • Fiber Optic Technology / instrumentation*
  • Lasers*
  • Refractometry / instrumentation*
  • Spectrum Analysis, Raman / instrumentation*
  • Transducers*