Research project

Laboratory topics (proposal):

1. Radiation influence on the optical fibers usable in nuclear power plants – study of useful polymers

The main objective of the project is to produce a polymer optical fiber for detecting the ionizing radiation. Under the project selection of polymer materials will be made which, under the influence of that radiation will change its properties, thereby changing the optical signal received by the detector. In addition, they physicochemical tests in order to check whether ionizing radiation on the test material is reversible or not will be carried out. An important element of the research will also be aging studies.

2. Aging tests of optical polymers

The aims of the project are aging tests of polymers used in optical fiber technology. In this project polymer optical fibers will be placed in a climate chamber. Based on mechanical and thermal studies, the impact of changing environmental conditions on the physicochemical properties of optical polymers will be evaluate.

3. Optical fiber amplitude sensor for detection of hazardous substances – study of useful polymers materials

The main objectives of the research are to make a detailed analysis of thermal, mechanical and optical properties of commercially available and modified polymers. Selected polymer/polymers will be applied as an outer coating on silica optical fiber then by entering it to the dangerous environment the measurements of the optical response of the sensor will be done.

4. Conductive polymers for optical fibers sensors

The aim of the research is to fabricate a polymer optical fiber, which can lead to both light and electricity. The project provides the selection of commercially available monomers, which after polymerization will show good electrical conductivity. Selection of polymers will rely also on their processsability. The project, in addition to carrying out basic physicochemical research of the selected polymers, will be carried out also to optimize their polymerization.

G. Socrates, Infrared and Raman Characteristic Group Frequencies, Tables and Chartes, John Wiley & Sons England, 2001

J.D. Menczel, R.B. Prime, Thermal analysis of polymers, Fundamentals and Applications, John Wiley & Sons Hoboken, New Jersey, Canada, 2009

O. Ziemann, J. Krauser, P. E. Zamzow, W. Daum, POF Handbook, Optical Short Range Transmission Systems, Springer Berlin, 2008

Based on the MCSU Senate Resolutions No. XXII-39.12/12 of 25 April 2012

i.e. since the educational cycle of 2012/2013

KNOWLEDGE

W1. Knows and understands the basic definitions regarding technology of optical fibers used for special purposes K_W01

W2. Knows and understands the basic technological processes related to the production of polymer optical fibers K_W05

W3. Knows and understands the polymer optical fiber drawing process K_W01

W4. Knows and understands the role of chemistry in optical fiber technology K_W01

W5. Knows and understands the use of optical fibers in various technical sectors and everyday life K_W01

W6. Knows and understands the use of typical thermal and spectroscopic measurements K_W03

W7. Knows and understands the use of mechanical tests in polymer optical fibers production K_W03

SKILLS

U1. Be able to find the necessary literature and use the acquired knowledge K_U29

U2. Be able to work and carry out tasks individually K_U03

U3. Be able to decide which analitical method is the best for testing polymer optical fibres K_U02

U4. Be able to write a report on the performed analyses and interpret the obtained results K_U01 K_U24

SOCIAL COMPETENCIES

K1. Be able to self-educate and to develop the ability to use knowledge independently K_K01

K2. Be able to take a critical approach to the topic being developed K_K01