Harnessing the Fourth Dimension Through Nonlinear Damping in Optical Fiber Flow Sensing

In this study, nonlinear damping is introduced as a critical enhancement in the operation of a fiber tip optomechanical flow-sensor. The flow sensor, is integrated onto the cleaved face of an optical fiber and features a three-dimensional (3D) rotor fabricated using a two-photon nanomachining process. By infusing a polydimethylsiloxane hydrocarbon stabilizing agent via integrated microfluidic channels into the sensing element, the device achieves consistent periodic measurement of gaseous nitrogen flow rates between 10 and 20 LPM. This paper presents a comprehensive characterization of the fiber tip flow sensor and highlights the advantages of nonlinear damping in enhancing the sensitivity and reliability of flow measurements.