Optical emitter based on micro-scaled photonic structures

Area of Science:

• Optoelectronics
• Photonics
• Materials Science

Background:

• Midwave infrared (MWIR) light emitting devices (LEDs) require improved internal quantum efficiency and light extraction efficiency.
• Localized surface plasmons (LSP) offer potential for optical confinement and enhanced light-matter interactions.
• Resonator structures are key for managing light emission and extraction in optoelectronic devices.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a novel micro-scaled photonic structure coupled to a resonator for MWIR LEDs.
• To enhance internal emission quantum efficiency using LSP.
• To improve light extraction efficiency by resonating LSP with the device's radiating mode.

Main Methods:

• Design of a micro-scaled photonic structure to generate localized surface plasmons (LSP).
• Integration of the photonic structure with a resonator cavity within the LED.
• Analysis of optical confinement and resonance effects for efficiency enhancement.

Main Results:

• Significant optical confinement achieved near the surface via LSP, boosting internal quantum efficiency.
• Resonance between LSP and the LED's radiating mode enhanced light extraction efficiency.
• Demonstrated potential for wavelength-selective passive emission to suppress thermal radiation.

Conclusions:

• The proposed micro-scaled photonic structure coupled to a resonator offers a viable pathway for highly efficient MWIR LEDs.
• The design principles are applicable to both active light emission and passive thermal radiation control.
• This versatile emitter structure holds promise for diverse optoelectronic applications.