Wavelength modulation spectroscopy with a widely tunable InP-based 2.3 microm vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser

We report on the successful application of recently developed 2.3 microm InP-based vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers with a buried tunnel junction in a wavelength modulation spectroscopy measurement for carbon monoxide (CO) detection. The electrically pumped devices operate at room temperature under cw operation with stable single-mode emission and should allow for parts in 10(6) (ppm) level resolution measurement of CO with a standard optical setup.