Fiber Optic Epoxy and Adhesive Materials

Choosing the correct adhesive for an application is critical and quality adhesives offer a wide range of solutions for any requirement. Adhesives are often generalized and end up being used in the wrong application resulting in disastrous effects. Fiber Optic Center has a dedicated Epoxy Expert on their technical team because the selection and application of the appropriate epoxy and adhesive materials are so critical to ensuring the quality and reliability of fiber optic components and systems.

Epoxy and adhesive materials play a critical role in fiber optics because they are used to bond and encapsulate optical components, including fiber optic connectors, couplers, and isolators, that have to be securely bonded to ensure a reliable optical connection. The optical properties of the epoxy adhesive material, including refractive index, viscosity, durometer, Tg (°C), pot life, operating temp/CTE, and curing schedules, can critically impact the performance of the optical components. The use of an inappropriate material or incorrect application can lead to failures in quality and reliability. Epoxy and adhesive materials are also used as coatings for optical fibers for protection against mechanical stress, temperature changes, and improved reliability.