Multi-Core Optical Fibers: Theory, Applications and Opportunities

Multi-core fibers (MCFs) have sparked a new paradigm in optical communications, as they can significantly increase the Shannon capacity of optical networks based on single-core fibers. In addition, MCFs constitute a useful platform for testing different physical phenomena, such as quantum or relativistic effects, as well as to develop interesting applications in various fields, such as biological and medical imaging. Motivated by the potential applications of these new fibers, we will perform a detailed review of the MCF technology including a theoretical analysis of the main physical impairments and new dispersive effects of these fibers, and we will discuss their emerging applications and opportunities in different branches of science