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Published on: November 30, 2012
Dynamics of a vertical cavity quantum cascade phonon laser structure
W Maryam1, A V Akimov, R P Campion
1School of Physics and Astronomy, University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK.
Nature Communications
|July 26, 2013
Summary
Researchers developed a phonon laser (saser) oscillator using a semiconductor superlattice. The device emits coherent sound, reaching a steady state within 0.1 μs, analogous to optical laser dynamics.
Area of Science:
- Acoustics
- Solid-state physics
- Optoelectronics
Background:
- The phonon laser (saser) has been a research target for over 50 years, inspired by optical lasers.
- Potential applications of intense coherent sound sources drive saser research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To fabricate and characterize a vertical cavity saser oscillator device.
- To investigate the dynamics and performance of a semiconductor superlattice-based saser.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of a vertical cavity structure with a semiconductor superlattice gain medium.
- Utilizing acoustic Bragg reflectors to form a multimode cavity.
- Measuring acoustic output over time following electrical pumping.
Main Results:
- The saser device operates at a frequency of 325 GHz.
- Acoustic emission intensity builds and reaches a steady state within approximately 0.1 μs.
- Results align with theoretical models of laser dynamics, providing estimates for gain, power, and efficiency.
Conclusions:
- Demonstrated a functional saser oscillator based on semiconductor superlattices.
- The device exhibits dynamics analogous to optical lasers.
- Provides a platform for studying coherent acoustic phenomena and potential applications.
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