Plastic Optical Fiber Chemical Resistance and Interactions
The following page is an overview of test data provided by Mitsubishi International Polymer Trade (MIP) on the effects of various chemicals on ESKA plastic optical fiber, as well as our own experiences. These effects range from degradation of the fiber’s jacket, to a complete failure to transmit light after exposure.
Interactions with Adhesives
PMMA fiber is damaged by chemicals containing high concentrations of amines, so instant adhesives made of cyanoacrylate (sold as “Super Glue”) should not be used. Non-solvent epoxy adhesives are highly recommended, but hardening components containing amines should also be avoided. Adhesive manufacturers use variations of standard recipes, so it is best to test small quantities of fiber and adhesive to ensure their compatibility.
Some adhesives known to be compatible with POF are:
- Epoxy Technology EPO-TEK310
- TRA-Con F113 SC
- MasterBond EP21-7P
- Loctite EA E-20HP
- 3M DP420 Black
Symptoms of incompatible adhesives include cracking, swelling, or “melting” of either the fiber’s jacket or POF core.
Interactions with Common Oils and Solvents
The following table lists the effects that common oils and solvents have on bare and jacketed fiber. For each test, a section of fiber was submerged in the chemical agent for at least 6 hours.
|
Chemical Agent |
Item |
Fiber GK-40 |
Cable GH-4001 |
|
Oil (ASTM Reference Oil #3) (50º C) |
Optical transmission Visual inspection |
OK
OK |
OK
Swelling |
|
Brake Fluid (SAE J1703) (50º C) |
Optical transmission Visual inspection |
FAIL (2 hr)
Cracking |
OK
Swelling |
|
Transmission Oil (GM 6137-M) (50º C) |
Optical transmission Visual inspection |
OK
OK |
OK
Swelling |
|
Antifreeze (GM 1825-M) (50º C) |
Optical transmission Visual inspection |
OK
OK |
OK
OK |
|
Gasoline (ASTM Reference Fuel A) (25º C) |
Optical transmission Visual inspection |
OK
OK |
OK
Swelling |
|
Gasoline (ASTM Reference Fuel C) (25º C) |
Optical transmission Visual inspection |
FAIL (2 hr)
Cracking |
FAIL (4 hr)
Swelling |
|
Windshield Washer Fluid (1:1 MeOh) (25º C) |
Optical transmission Visual inspection |
OK
OK |
OK
OK |
|
5% NaCO Solution (25º C) |
Optical transmission Visual inspection |
OK
OK |
OK
OK |
|
Diesel #2 (25º C) |
Optical transmission Visual inspection |
OK
OK |
OK
Swelling |
|
460 g/L H SO Solution (25º C) |
Optical transmission
Visual inspection |
OK OK |
OK OK |
| Carburetor Cleaner (25º C) | Optical transmission
Visual inspection |
FAIL (2 hr)
Cracking |
FAIL (4 hr)
Swelling |
Attenuation Change vs. Exposure Time
The following graphics show the change in signal attenuation versus exposure time.
This information is presented as a guide for product selection. It is subject to change without notice, and should not be regarded as a representation, warranty, or guarantee with regard to the quality, characteristics or use of this product.