USA As Represented by Secretary of the Navy

Liliana Klinger

James R Griffith

An infinite network polymer containing fluorine as a coating or cladding material for optical fibers. Fluoropolymers, such as silicone amine C.sub.0 -C.sub.16 fluoroepoxy resin and cis-trans fluoropolyol polyacrylate, reduce water permeability because of the bonding between the fluoropolymer and the substrate. The fluoropolymers exhibit substantially increased moisture resistance when compared to conventional fiber coating materials. Variations in chemical structure effect physical properties of the polymer and different compounds can be chosen for their desired physical properties, such as moisture resistance or abrasion resistance. Incorporation of fluorine into the polymer structure lowers the index of refraction such that the polymer can be used as a cladding for silica glass in an optical fiber. One fluoropolymer formulation allows in-line coating of the optical fiber in a oxygen environment.

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Jackson, NJ, United States of America

Liliana Klinger