Abstract: A nucleant seed for epitaxial growth of single-crystal CaF2 includes SrF2. In some embodiments, YF3, LaF3, or rare-earth fluoride is substituted into the SrF2 structure.

Abstract: A micro-electro-mechanical system (MEMS) optical switch has a passive latching system. The switch includes a reflective element and a switch actuator for moving the reflective element to a first position based on a switching signal. The passive latching system is coupled to the switch actuator, where the passive latching system maintains the reflective element in the first position when the switching signal is discontinued. The latching system has a first magnet configuration coupled to a first portion of the switch actuator, and a second magnet configuration coupled to a second portion of the actuator. Thus, a magnetic force biases the magnetic configurations together when the reflective element is in the first position and the switching signal is discontinued. The latching is discontinued by using the switching signal to raise the temperature of one of the magnet configurations above its Curie point.

Abstract: A nucleant seed for epitaxial growth of single-crystal CaF2 includes SrF2. In some embodiments, YF3, LaF3, or rare-earth fluoride is substituted into the SrF2 structure.

Abstract: A nucleant seed for epitaxial growth of single-crystal CaF2 includes SrF2. In some embodiments, YF3, LaF3, or rare-earth fluoride is substituted into the SrF2 structure.

Abstract: In the process for applying a protective plastic coating to a glass optical waveguide fiber by the application of a curable liquid coating material thereto and the subsequent curing of the liquid coating to a protective plastic layer, the surface of the glass optical fiber is conditioned prior to the application of the liquid coating material thereto by replacing air adjacent the fiber surface with a selected gas preferably exhibiting high solubility in the liquid coating composition and resisting bubble formation in the liquid coating layer as it is formed.

Abstract: A method of preparing an optical device for alignment with a light beam emitter or receiver. The optical device is formed of a first glass that is resistant to dissolving in a given solvent. Extending through the device is an optical waveguide at least the cladding of which is soluble in the given solvent. At least one end of the device is immersed in the solvent to dissolve the end portion of the fiber and form a well. An optical fiber is inserted into the well where it is aligned with the fiber extending through the device.