Infrared light with a wavelength around 1,330 nm (least dispersion) or 1,550 nm (best transmission) are the best choices for standard silica fibers.

The silica fibers are useful for producing wet webs, filter linings and reinforcing material.

The fact that polymer fiber is used rather than silica fiber is beneficial in terms of patient safely.

Beta cloth consists of fine woven silica fiber, similar to fiberglass.

Normally a germanium-doped silica fiber is used in the manufacture of fiber Bragg gratings.

One other advantage is that fusion splicing and cleaving of silica fibers is relatively effective.

Large efforts put forth in the development of various types of silica fibers have further increased the performance of such fibers over other materials.

Pure silica fibers are needed as they are more resistant to high radiation levels.

"The size is interesting in itself, showing just how small one can make relatively low-loss silica fibers," he said.

It also replaced titania as the silica dopant for silica fiber, eliminating the need for subsequent heat treatment, which made the fibers brittle.