Abstract

Over the last few years, optical fiber sensors have seen increased acceptance and widespread use. Among the multitude of sensor types, Fiber Bragg Grating (FBG) based sensors-more than any other particular sensor type-have become widely known and popular. FBGs have an intrinsic capability to measure a variety of parameters along a single fiber, such as: strain, temperature, pressure, chemical and biological agents, and many others. These multi-point sensing arrays of many relative low cost FBGs, provide great flexibility of design and make them ideal devices to be adopted for a multitude of different sensing applications and implemented in different fields and industries. However, some technical hurdles and market barriers need to be overcome in order for this technology-and fiber sensors in general-to gain more commercial momentum and achieve faster and more pronounced market growth. Other relevant factors are the need for industry standards on FBGs and FBGbased sensors, adequate and reliable packaging designs, as well as training and education of prospective customers and end-users.