Underwaterwireless communication has become increasingly vital due to its applications in marine research, environmental monitoring, and defence systems. While traditional acoustic methods dominatethefield,theysufferfromsignificant drawbacks such as low data rates, high latency, and susceptibility to environmental interference. As an alternative, Underwater Optical Wireless Communication (UOWC) utilizing infrared (IR) technology offers promising advancements, particularly for short-rangeandhigh-speeddatatransfer.This review paper explores the potential of IR- based UOWC systems by examining their operational principles, advantages, and limitations. Key aspects include channel modelling, modulation techniques, and integration with modern technologies such as 6G and underwater sensor networks. The paper also highlights current challenges, including absorption and scattering losses,and proposes potential solutions like spatial diversity, hybrid communication models, and energy-efficient system designs. By addressing these challenges through enhanced modelling, real-world testing, and adaptive communication protocols, IR-based UOWC systems can significantly enhance underwater communication capabilities.The paperconcludes that infrared technology is still developing,holdsconsiderablepromisefor secure, reliable, and efficient underwater communicationinvarious critical applications.
Introduction
1. Introduction
The demand for efficient underwater communication is growing, especially for marine research, military operations, and autonomous vehicles.
Traditional acoustic systems, while reliable for long distances, suffer from:
Low data rates
High latency
Susceptibility to environmental disturbances
Underwater Optical Wireless Communication (UOWC), particularly using infrared (IR) light, is gaining attention for short-range, high-speed, secure communication.
2. Benefits of UOWC (vs. Acoustic Communication)
Gigabit-per-second (Gbps) speeds
Low latency and low power usage
Increased security due to limited range and directionality
Blue and green wavelengths are commonly used due to low absorption, but IR offers:
Reduced scattering in turbid freshwater
Suitability for short-range, high-security applications
MIMO systems to reduce error and improve reliability
Multi-hop relays to extend communication range
Dynamic adaptation using environmental sensing
Energy-efficient design, including sleep-wake protocols and energy harvesting
7. Future Directions & Research Gaps
Improved channel models:
Incorporate physical, chemical, and biological influences
Hybrid communication systems:
Combine acoustic and optical for flexibility
Real-world testing:
Field trials needed beyond lab simulations
Energy efficiency:
Essential for low-power underwater vehicles and sensors
Data security:
Development of lightweight cryptographic protocols tailored to UOWC/IR
Conclusion
Infrared-basedunderwaterwireless communication systems hold great potential as a promising frontier in the pursuit of high-speed, dependable, and secure underwater connectivity. Despite the persisting challenges, especially in terms of signal weakening and environmental fluctuations, continuous progress in channel modelling, modulation methods, and system integration is propelling the practical implementation of IR. By conducting thorough research on channelcharacterization,hybrid architectures, real-world validations, energy efficiency, and data security, the potential of ir technology to revolutionize underwater communication networks could be realized.Asresearchprogresses,thesignificanceofIR in UOWC is expected to broaden, providing innovative solutions to the increasing needs of underwater exploration, monitoring, and defence purposes.
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