The Real-Time Mach-Zehnder Interferometer used in Space Experiment

Abstract

The optical interference method is a promising technique for measuring temperature, density, and concentration in fluids. The non-intrusive and non-invasive nature of its optical techniques to the measured section are its most outstanding features. However, the adverse experiment environment, especially regarding shaking and vibrating, greatly restricts the application of the interferometer. In the present work, an optical diagnostic system consisting of a Mach-Zehnder interferometer (named after physicists Ludwig Mach) and an image processor has been developed that increases the measuring sensitivity compared to conventional experimental methods in fluid mechanics. An image processor has also been developed for obtaining quantitative results by using Fourier transformation. The present facility has been used in observing and measuring the mass transfer process of a water droplet in EAFP protein solution under microgravity condition provided by the satellite Shi Jian No. 8.

An experimental research on surface oscillation of buoyant-thermocapillary convection in open cylindrical annuli

“…Moreover, Leppinen [14] showed that curvature effects dramatically dictated the order at which convection influences the core region solutions. Duan et al [15][16][17] used the interference technique and bar line technique to measure surface deformation of buoyant-thermocapillary convection in a rectangular pool. They found that with increasing temperature gradient, surface deformation for h = 3.5 mm and h = 6.0 mm were reversed, and the deformation changes were from several microns to 40 µm.…”

Simulation study of compressed ultrafast 3D imaging based on interferometry

“…According to the theory of information optics and the interference fringes in Mach-Zehnder interferometer [30].…”