Theoretical and experimental study on optical polarization states in overhead optical cables under complex weather conditions such as real lightning

Abstract By analyzing the changes in three Stokes vectors, the trajectory of polarization state on the Poincaré sphere, and the polarization change rate, both theoretical and practical aspects of polarization state variations in signal light within optical fiber composite overhead power ground wires (OPGWs) during real thunderstorm conditions, were examined. Our findings reveal that lightning and mechanical vibrations both impact the polarization state of the signal light in OPGW. Theoretical models demonstrate that lightning induces polarization changes through the Faraday magneto-optic effect and exhibits nonlinear electro-optic effects, leading to a maximum polarization change rate of Mrad s −1 . In contrast, mechanical vibrations cause long-term, low-intensity polarization rate changes, with a maximum polarization rate of Krad s −1 , highlighting a significant optical birefringence effect. Digital signal processing algorithms for coherent receivers with over 100G polarization multiplexing provide valuable guidance for recovering polarization states.