Thermally drawn multifunctional fibers: Toward the next generation of information technology

As the fundamental building block of optical fiber communication technology, thermally drawn fibers have fueled development and prosperity modern information society. However, conventional step-index configured silica scarcely altered since their invention. In recent years, multifunctional emerged as a new yet promising route to enable unprecedented in technology. By adopting well-developed preform-to-fiber manufacturing technique, broad range functional materials can be seamlessly integrated into single on kilometer length scale deliver sophisticated functions. Functions such photodetection, imaging, acoustoelectric detection, chemical sensing, tactile biological probing, energy harvesting storage, data program operation, processing devices. addition original light-guiding function, these flexible woven fabrics achieve large-scale personal health monitoring interpersonal communication. Thermally opened up stage for next generation This review article summarizes an overview basic concepts, fabrication processes, developments fibers. It also highlights significant progress future applications.