Thermal bistability-based method for real-time optimization of ultralow-threshold whispering gallery mode microlasers

Area of Science:

• Optics and Photonics
• Laser Physics
• Materials Science

Background:

• Microlasers are crucial for miniaturized optical systems.
• Optimizing microlaser performance, especially threshold power, is essential for device efficiency.
• Traditional monitoring methods can be time-consuming and lack real-time feedback.

Purpose of the Study:

• To demonstrate a novel method for optimizing ultralow-threshold microlasers.
• To enable real-time monitoring of microlaser characteristics.
• To leverage thermal bistability for improved laser performance analysis.

Main Methods:

• Utilized thermal bistability by sweeping pump laser frequency across resonance.
• Analyzed dynamic thermal effects to slow down power variations.
• Applied the method to a functionalized microsphere microlaser with a submicrowatt threshold.

Main Results:

• Observed line shape modification due to dynamic thermal bistability.
• Successfully demonstrated real-time monitoring of laser characteristics.
• Validated the approach by comparing with quasi-static measurements.

Conclusions:

• The thermal bistability method provides an effective means for ultralow-threshold microlaser optimization.
• Real-time monitoring capability enhances the understanding and control of microlaser behavior.
• This technique offers a significant advancement over conventional characterization methods.