Abstract
In this paper, two techniques for interrogation and multiplexing of fiber loop mirror (FLM) intensity sensors based on optical time domain reflectometer (OTDR) are proposed. These configurations enable series and parallel FLM sensor interrogation. A fiber taper characterized as a displacement sensor was used as the intensity sensor. The OTDR parameters were optimized in order to obtain the best results. The optimized parameters were 100-ns pulse width and 10-dB input signal attenuation which permitted to attain similar to 18 dB dynamic range in the operating wavelength of 1550 nm. The results show a linear behavior for both configurations with similar slope, -15.3 dB/mm, in the normalized displacement range of 0.2 to 0.7 mm. It was also achieved a displacement resolution of 0.027 and 0.093 mm, for the series and parallel configurations, respectively. Sensors multiplexing are demonstrated for both configurations and the systems do not present crosstalk. Based on the experimental results, the best configuration is the parallel one. The proposed approach is a viable alternative for multiplexing and interrogation of remote fiber sensors.

Abstract
INESC TEC is strongly committed to become a center of excellence in maritime technology and, in particular, deep sea technology. The STRONGMAR project aims at creating solid and productive links in the global field of marine science and technology between INESC TEC and established leading research European institutions, capable of enhancing the scientific and technological capacity of INESC TEC and linked institutions, helping raising its staff's research profile and its recognition as a European maritime research center of excellence. The STRONGMAR project seeks complementarity to the TEC4SEA research infrastructure: on the one hand, TEC4SEA promotes the establishment of a unique infrastructure of research and technological development, and on the other, the STRONGMAR project intends to develop the scientific expertise of the research team of INESC TEC.

Abstract
In this work an investigation of long period fiber gratings (LPFGs) over coated with iron (Fe) thin layers with different thicknesses and subjected to oxidation in air atmosphere under controlled temperature is presented. The formation of iron oxides was monitored in real time by following the optical features of the LPFG attenuation band. The morphology of the oxide layer was further analyzed by scanning electron microscope (SEM). Preliminary results show that iron coated LPFGs can be used as sensors for early warning of corrosion in projects where metal structures made of iron alloys are in contact with atmospheric air.

Abstract
In this work two erbium doped optical fiber laser configurations for magnetic field measurement are implemented and compared. The first laser is set-up in a loop configuration and requires only a single FBG (Fiber Bragg Grating), acting as mirror. A second laser employs a simpler linear cavity configuration but requires two FBGs with spectral overlap to form the laser cavity. A bulk magnetostrictive material made of Terfenol-D is attached to the laser FBGs enabling modulation of its operation wavelength by the magnetic field. Moreover, a passive interferometer was developed to demodulate the AC magnetic field information where the corresponding demodulation algorithms were software based. Both configurations are tested and compared with the results showing different sensitivities and resolutions. Better performance was accomplished with the double FBGs linear cavity configuration with a resolution of 0.05 mTRMS in the range of 8 to 16 mTRMS. For the same range the loop configuration attained a resolution of 0.48 mT(RMS).

Abstract
In this paper a spun elliptically birefringent photonic crystal fiber is fabricated and characterized. Its performance as a current sensor, using a polarimetric configuration, was tested and compared against single mode fiber at 633 nm. In particular the sensor sensitivity and linearity was investigated using fiber loops with different radius or number of turns around the conductor. The results obtained show that the spun fiber (40 rotation per meter) is able to suppress quite effectively the effects of the bend induced birefringence as compared to the standard fiber.

Abstract
A fiber optic sensor for high sensitivity refractive index and temperature measurement able to withstand temperature up to 450 degrees C is reported. Two identical LPG gratings were fabricated, whereas one was coated with a high refractive index (similar to 1.78) sol-gel thin film in order to increase its sensitivity to the external refractive index. The two sensors were characterized and compared in refractive index and temperature. Sensitivities of 1063 nm/RIU (1.338 - 1.348) and 260 pm/degrees C were achieved for refractive index and temperature, respectively.