Nizhny Novgorod scientists have created a new optical fiber for medical lasers.

      04 October 2025 11:40

      Science

      Scientists at the G.G. Devyatykh Institute of Chemistry of High‑Purity Substances of the Russian Academy of Sciences have developed a unique optical fiber that can transmit infrared light with minimal losses, the press service of the Russian Science Foundation (RSF) reported.

      The optical fiber is an ultra-thin glass filament capable of conducting infrared radiation over long distances. Such fibers are especially important for precise laser operations, for example in ophthalmology and neurosurgery.

      Previously, selenium- and tellurium-based glasses, commonly used for the infrared range, had one serious problem — microcrystals formed inside the material. They scattered light and greatly reduced efficiency.

      Chemists in Nizhny Novgorod found a way to bypass this limitation. They used a germanium telluride–based glass with added silver iodide, thoroughly purified the starting materials, and employed an unusual method of shaping the fiber — extrusion through a tiny hole in the bottom of the vessel. This approach prevented the formation of defects.

      Thanks to this development, it will be possible to create more powerful and precise lasers for microsurgery, as well as sensitive sensors for air and water analysis. Tests of the new fiber as part of real laser installations will take place in the near future.

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