Mechanical properties of polymer optic microconnectors fabricated by two-photon polymerization method

This study was conducted to investigate the mechanical properties of polymer optical fiber microconnectors fabricated via two-photon polymerization. This experimentally demonstrates the vital role of substrate surface treatment in enhancing the adhesion characteristics of polymer microconnectors to the surface. Comprehensive bend and peel tests were performed, and stress limits in various directional orientations were defined. These findings indicate that the microconnectors exhibited substantial adhesion to the substrate when an additional Ti buffer layer was applied. The mechanisms of fracture and stress distribution under applied loads were also examined. The results underscore the critical importance of optimal geometric design and precise installation of microconnectors to ensure their reliability. This study opens avenues for further optimization of the geometry and mechanical properties of microconnectors.