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Characterizing Far-infrared Laser Emissions and the Measurement of Their Frequencies
Published on: December 18, 2015
High-Power Infrared (8-Micrometer Wavelength) Superlattice Lasers
1Bell Laboratories, Lucent Technologies, 700 Mountain Avenue, Murray Hill, NJ 07974, USA.
Science (New York, N.Y.)
|May 2, 1997
Summary
A novel superlattice quantum-cascade laser emits infrared light via electron tunneling. This design achieves high power and tunable wavelengths, showing potential for advanced infrared sources.
Area of Science:
- Quantum electronics
- Optoelectronics
- Solid-state physics
Background:
- Quantum cascade lasers (QCLs) are semiconductor devices emitting light via electron transitions between quantized states.
- Superlattices offer unique electronic band structures (minibands) and energy gaps (minigaps) that can be engineered for specific optical properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To demonstrate a quantum-cascade laser utilizing superlattice active regions for infrared emission.
- To investigate the performance and potential of this superlattice-based design for high-power infrared sources.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of a superlattice structure using molecular beam epitaxy with alternating AlInAs barriers and GaInAs quantum wells.
- Characterization of pulsed laser operation, measuring output power and wavelength at cryogenic temperatures.
Main Results:
- Successful demonstration of a quantum-cascade laser operating at approximately 8 micrometers.
- Achieved peak powers from 0.80 W at 80 K to 0.2 W at 200 K.
- Highlighted high oscillator strength of the optical transition within the superlattice.
Conclusions:
- Strongly coupled superlattices are viable materials for infrared laser development.
- The demonstrated design shows promise for tunable, high-power infrared laser sources.
- Tailoring superlattice parameters allows for precise control over emission wavelength.
