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30 years of the quantum cascade laser
Giacomo Scalari1, Jérôme Faist1
1Institute for Quantum Electronics, ETH Zürich, Auguste-Piccard-Hof 1, Zürich, 8093 Zürich Switzerland.
Communications Physics
|December 9, 2024
Summary
Quantum cascade lasers (QCLs) have advanced significantly since 1994, becoming key on-chip coherent radiation sources in Mid-IR and THz ranges. This evolution fuels diverse applications in laser physics and beyond.
Area of Science:
- Semiconductor laser physics
- Optoelectronics
- Mid-Infrared (Mid-IR) and Terahertz (THz) technology
Background:
- The first quantum cascade laser (QCL) demonstrated laser action in January 1994.
- Initially a laboratory novelty, QCLs have undergone continuous development over three decades.
- They are now pivotal on-chip sources for coherent radiation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the 30-year evolution of quantum cascade lasers.
- To highlight the advancements in QCL technology and applications.
- To underscore the transition of QCLs from lab curiosity to essential coherent radiation sources.
Main Methods:
- Review of historical development and scientific literature.
- Analysis of technological advancements in laser physics.
- Survey of application expansion in Mid-IR and THz ranges.
Main Results:
- Quantum cascade lasers are now the primary on-chip sources for Mid-IR and THz coherent radiation.
- Significant progress has been made in laser physics and diverse applications.
- There is a worldwide increase in research groups and companies focused on QCLs.
Conclusions:
- The quantum cascade laser has matured into a vital optoelectronic device.
- Its development over 30 years has enabled widespread applications in Mid-IR and THz technologies.
- Continued global research and commercial interest indicate a promising future for QCLs.
