Abstract: A method of minimizing localized heating of, or minimizing signal losses across a source of loss in, an optical fiber used in transmission of a high power optical signal at an operating wavelength. These methods include the steps of: providing an optical fiber which comprises either (i) a coating characterized by an absorbance of less than about 4.5 dB/cm at the operating wavelength or (ii) a refractive index lower than the refractive index of a cladding layer of the optical fiber by more than about 3×10?3 at the operating wavelength, or (iii) both (i) and (ii); and transmitting a optical signal having a power greater than about 250 mW through the optical fiber, wherein the coating, cladding layer, or combination thereof are selected to minimize localized heating of the optical fiber or to result in a signal loss across a source of loss that is less than about 250 mW at the operating wavelength.

Abstract: The present invention provides materials suitable for use as secondary coatings of optical fibers or the re-coating of spliced optical fiber junctions. With regard to the latter use, the coating materials a preferably characterized by a Young's modulus that is at least about 1200 MPa, and an interfacial strength as measured by the rod and tube method of greater than 25 MPa.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing a silica-containing article used in the manufacture of an optical fiber includes the steps of applying to the silica-containing article a protective layer, and then transporting the coated article to a second factory for further processing. The layer facilitates ease of removal of particulates that deposit on the protective layer. The layer preferably ablates during, or can be readily removed subsequent to, further processing of the silica-containing article. Any intermediate product used in the manufacture of an optical fiber, for example, a core blank, core cane segment, consolidated preform, etc. may be readily shipped between various factories because the articles are protected against break-inducing particulates by the protective layer.

Abstract: An optical waveguide fiber with a fatigue resistant TiO.sub.2 -SiO.sub.2 outer cladding including a cylindrical outermost layer with TiO.sub.2 concentration greater than 10.5 wt. % and thickness less than 3 .mu.m. The fiber may include a two layer outer cladding with higher TiO.sub.2 concentration in the outer layer. The outer cladding may include a plurality of inhomogeneities dispersed in a TiO.sub.2 -SiO.sub.2 matrix.