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Detection sensitivity of laser feedback interferometry using a terahertz quantum cascade laser.
Optics Letters
|July 2, 2019
Summary
This study demonstrates a highly sensitive terahertz laser feedback interferometry system. The quantum cascade laser (QCL) system achieves a noise equivalent power of 1.4 pW/√Hz, enabling sensitive detection.
Area of Science:
- Terahertz Spectroscopy and Sensing
- Quantum Cascade Laser (QCL) Technology
- Optical Interferometry
Background:
- Terahertz (THz) frequency range offers unique material probing capabilities.
- Quantum cascade lasers (QCLs) are compact and efficient THz sources.
- Laser feedback interferometry (LFI) can enhance detection sensitivity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the detection sensitivity of an LFI scheme utilizing a THz QCL.
- To quantify the minimum optical feedback power required for voltage variation detection.
- To determine the noise equivalent power (NEP) of the developed system.
Main Methods:
- Implementation of a laser feedback interferometry setup with a THz QCL.
- Measurement of laser voltage variations induced by optical feedback.
- Characterization of system sensitivity by varying optical reinjection power.
- Determination of noise equivalent power (NEP) through noise analysis.
Main Results:
- High detection sensitivity achieved, resolving voltage variations with reinjected powers as low as ∼-125 dB.
- Measured noise equivalent power (NEP) of approximately 1.4 pW/√Hz.
- Estimated effective NEP coupled to the QCL active region is as low as ∼1 fW/√Hz after accounting for losses.
Conclusions:
- The THz QCL-based LFI scheme exhibits exceptional sensitivity for detecting small optical perturbations.
- The system's performance is suitable for applications requiring ultra-sensitive measurements in the THz domain.
- Further optimization of optical coupling can enhance the effective sensitivity of the QCL active region.


