Abstract:
The deposition rate of MCVD processes is enhanced by applying to the outside of the deposition tube (101) at least a first (107) and a second (103) independently controlled heat source to a plurality of reactant vapours flowing in the tube which are used to form deposited particulate matter on the inside of the tube (101). The first heat source (107) is adjusted so as to provide at least a specified rate of reaction for the reactants, and the second source (103) is adjusted so as to provide at least a specified deposition rate on the inside of the tube (101) for the particulate matter formed by the chemical vapour reaction.