Compact triple coupled quantum well system for electrical/optical control of optical bi/multistability

Area of Science:

• Quantum Optics
• Semiconductor Physics
• Nanophotonics

Background:

• Optical bistability (OB) and optical multistability (OM) are crucial nonlinear optical phenomena with applications in optical switching and memory.
• Coupled quantum wells offer a promising platform for engineering advanced optical properties due to their tunable electronic and optical characteristics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate optical bistability and multistability in a triple coupled quantum wells system within a semiconductor cavity.
• To explore the control mechanisms for OB and OM by manipulating optical and electrical parameters, specifically tunneling rates.

Main Methods:

• Theoretical investigation of a triple coupled quantum wells system embedded in a semiconductor cavity.
• Analysis of the system's response to optical fields and control parameters like tunneling rates and incoherent pump fields.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated efficient control over the behaviors of optical bistability and multistability.
• Showcased the ability to engineer the threshold and hysteresis cycle of OB and OM by tuning inter-well tunneling rates.
• Investigated the influence of incoherent pump fields and cooperation parameters on the creation of optical bistability.

Conclusions:

• The triple coupled quantum wells system provides a versatile platform for achieving and controlling optical bistability and multistability.
• Tuning tunneling rates is an effective strategy for engineering the characteristics of OB and OM, enabling potential applications in optical signal processing.