Abstract: Methods of delivering laser energy for medical procedures or industrial processes using an optical fiber having a core formed of a highly transmissive silica-based glass core and an outermost cladding layer of silica-titania glass.

Abstract: A new optical fiber and method of manufacturing the same developed for use with surgical laser systems. The fiber core utilizes an ultra-low expansion (ULE) material. The preferred ULE fiber consists of silicon dioxide core doped with titanium dioxide which is cladded and jacketed for chemical and abrasion resistance. The resulting fiber is stable against degradation due to thermal expansion.

Abstract: A new optical fiber and method of manufacturing the same developed for use with surgical laser systems. The fiber core utilizes an ultra-low expansion (ULE) material. The preferred ULE fiber consists of silicon dioxide core doped with titanium dioxide which is cladded and jacketed for chemical and abrasion resistance. The resulting fiber is stable against degradation due to thermal expansion.

Abstract: Glass tubing that utilizes silica-titania glass as material for the tubing. The tubing of the invention can be formed of a single layer of silica-titania glass or the tubing can be formed in layers, with an outer layer of silica-titania glass and an inner layer of silica glass. The tubing can also be formed with an inner layer of silica-titania glass covered by a layer of silica glass, or the tubing can be formed with three layers, an inner layer and an outer layer of silica-titania glass sandwiching a layer of silica glass. In all embodiments, the resulting tubing has improved mechanical strength or improved chemical durability or both making the tubing useful in a variety of medical and industrial applications.