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3.36 µm single-mode quantum cascade laser with a dissipation below 250 mW
Optics Express
|February 3, 2016
Summary
We developed new quantum cascade lasers (QCLs) operating at 3.36 µm, achieving high temperatures up to 130 °C and low threshold currents. These distributed-feedback QCLs show excellent single-mode performance for various applications.
Area of Science:
- Optoelectronics
- Semiconductor devices
- Quantum engineering
Background:
- Quantum cascade lasers (QCLs) are crucial semiconductor devices for mid-infrared applications.
- Improving the operational temperature and efficiency of QCLs remains a key research challenge.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present novel 3.36 µm buried heterostructure distributed-feedback quantum cascade lasers.
- To characterize their performance regarding power dissipation, operational temperature, and emission characteristics.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of buried heterostructure distributed-feedback quantum cascade lasers.
- Characterization of threshold current, power dissipation, and optical power in pulsed and continuous-wave (CW) modes.
- Analysis of single-mode emission and far-field patterns at various temperatures.
Main Results:
- Achieved operation temperatures as high as 130 °C.
- Demonstrated low threshold currents: <20 mA (pulsed at -10 °C) and <30 mA (CW at -20 °C).
- Reported high optical power: >130 mW (pulsed at -20 °C) and >13 mW (CW at -20 °C), with CW operation up to 15 °C.
- Confirmed single-mode emission in both pulsed and CW long-pulse operation.
- Observed single-lobe far-field emission (27° × 34° FWHM).
Conclusions:
- The developed 3.36 µm DFB QCLs exhibit high-temperature and high-performance characteristics.
- These lasers demonstrate robust single-mode emission, suitable for demanding applications.
- The results contribute to the advancement of mid-infrared laser technology.
