Hydrogen loss

Optical signal loss (attenuation) resulting from hydrogen found in the optical fiber. Hydrogen in glass absorbs light and turns it into heat and thus attenuates the light. For this reason, glass manufacturers serving the fiberoptic industry must keep water and hydrogen out of the glass and deliver it to guaranteed specifications in this regard. In addition, they must protect the glass with a cladding that will preclude the absorption of water and hydrogen into the glass.