Fiber optic cables are made of several key materials, each serving a specific purpose to ensure efficient light transmission and durability.

• Material: Ultra-pure glass (silica, SiO₂) or sometimes plastic (for POF - Plastic Optical Fiber).
• Function: Carries light signals (laser or LED) over long distances.
• Purity: Glass cores are doped with germanium (GeO₂) or fluorine to adjust refractive index.

• Material: Glass or plastic with a lower refractive index than the core.
• Function: Keeps light signals contained within the core via total internal reflection.

• Material: Acrylate (UV-cured resin) or polyimide (for harsh environments).
• Function: Protects the fragile glass fiber from moisture and physical damage.

• Material:
  • Aramid yarn (Kevlar®) - Provides flexibility and tensile strength.
  • Steel wire - Used in armored fiber cables for extra protection.
  • Fiberglass rods - Prevents bending and crushing.
• Function: Protects the fiber from stretching and breaking during installation.

• Material: Plastic (PBT, PVC, or nylon).
• Function: Houses multiple fibers in loose-tube designs, protecting them from moisture and stress.

• Material:
  • PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) - General-purpose, flexible.
  • LSZH (Low Smoke Zero Halogen) - Used in buildings for fire safety.
  • PE (Polyethylene) - For outdoor/underground cables (resistant to water/UV).
  • Armored (Steel/Aluminum) - For rodent/mechanical protection.
• Function: Shields the cable from water, chemicals, abrasion, and physical damage.