Are low- and high-loss glass–ceramic optical fibers possible game changers?

Abstract

This review surveys recent developments in nanoparticle-containing optical fibers—such as glass–ceramics, metallic nanoparticle-doped glasses, and phase-separated structures—and evaluates their potential to revolutionize applications in lasers, optical communications, sensing, and lighting. The article examines fabrication methods, transparency performance, and practical considerations, assessing whether glass–ceramic optical fibers with exceptionally low or high losses could become transformative in various photonic fields.