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Published on: July 12, 2017
Lateral distributed-feedback gratings for single-mode, high-power terahertz quantum-cascade lasers
M Wienold1, A Tahraoui, L Schrottke
1Paul-Drude-Institut für Festkörperelektronik, Berlin, Germany. wienold@pdi-berlin.de
Optics Express
|May 9, 2012
Summary
We developed novel terahertz quantum-cascade lasers (THz QCLs) using lateral distributed-feedback gratings. These lasers achieve high power and single-mode operation, advancing THz technology.
Area of Science:
- Optics and Photonics
- Semiconductor Devices
- Terahertz Technology
Background:
- Terahertz quantum-cascade lasers (THz QCLs) are crucial for various applications.
- Achieving high-power, single-mode THz QCLs remains a challenge.
- Lateral distributed-feedback (lDFB) gratings offer a promising approach for device design.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report on THz QCLs utilizing first-order lDFB gratings.
- To present a method for determining lateral grating coupling coefficients.
- To validate experimental results with theoretical simulations.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication and characterization of THz QCLs with lDFB gratings.
- Application of coupled-mode theory to determine grating coupling coefficients.
- Numerical simulations of lDFB cavities, including reflective end facets.
Main Results:
- Continuous-wave operation achieved for the lDFB THz QCLs.
- High output powers exceeding 8 mW were obtained.
- Single-mode emission was observed in the 3.3-3.4 THz range.
- Corrugated metal layers were shown to yield large coupling strengths.
Conclusions:
- First-order lDFB gratings enable high-performance THz QCLs.
- The presented method accurately models lDFB cavity behavior.
- These devices represent a significant advancement in THz laser technology.
