Current Status of High Performance Quantum Cascade Lasers at the Center for Quantum Devices (original) (raw)

The quantum cascade laser: A versatile high-power semiconductor laser for mid-infrared applications

Bell Labs Technical Journal, 2005

Since its invention at Bell Labs in the mid-nineties, the quantum cascade laser (QCL) has evolved rapidly to become a viable commercial alternative to other solid-state mid-infrared light sources. QCLs are compact, high-power, wavelength-agile laser devices that are ideally suited for mid-infrared applications such as chemical sensing and free-space telecommunications. This paper summarizes our recent progress in QCL technology, with a particular emphasis on device design and fabrication. The current state-ofthe-art in performance of InP lattice-matched QCL is reviewed. In order to expand the functionality of QCLs, new materials and device concepts are being explored. In particular, nonlinear light generation in QCLs is discussed in detail. The experimental results confirm the potential of nonlinear QCLs to extend the wavelength range of InP-based devices. Ongoing efforts to improve the fabrication of InP-based QCLs and to develop new QCL materials are presented.

High-Power Mid-Infrared (λ∼3-6 μm) Quantum Cascade Lasers

IEEE Photonics Journal, 2021

The performances of mid-infrared (IR) quantum cascade lasers (QCLs) are now reaching a maturity level that enables a variety of applications which require compact laser sources capable of watt-range output powers with high beam quality. We review the fundamental design issues and current performance limitations, focusing on InGaAs/AlInAs/InP QCLs with emission in the 3-6 µm wavelength range. Metamorphic materials broaden the available compositions for accessing short emission wavelengths (λ≤3.5 µm) or for integration with GaAs-and Si-photonics platforms. Conduction-band engineering through the use of varying compositions throughout the active-region structure has been utilized to achieve the highest performance levels to date. Interface roughness scattering plays a dominant role in determining both the lower-laser-level lifetime as well as the carrier-leakage current. Numerous approaches have been implemented in attempts to control, scale, and stabilize the spatial mode to high output powers. Of all approaches photonic-crystal structures with high built-in index contrast, thus capable of maintaining modal properties under strong self-heating, are the most promising device configuration for achieving single-spatial-mode, single-lobe reliable CW operation to multiwatt-range power levels. Such devices have demonstrated to date >5W front-facet output powers with diffraction-limited beams in short-pulse operation.

High average power uncooled mid-wave infrared quantum cascade lasers

Electronics Letters, 2011

High-performance uncooled quantum cascade lasers emitting at wavelengths of 4.6 and 4.0 mm are reported. The 4.6 mm lasers show an average optical power in excess of 2 W at a heatsink temperature of 300K, wall-plug efficiencies of 13 and 10% at output power levels of 1 and 2 W, respectively, and an average power in excess of 1.2 W at 340K. The 4.0 mm lasers show an average optical power in excess of 1.5 W at 300K and wall-plug efficiencies of 9 and 7% at output power levels of 1 and 1.5 W, respectively.

Recent advances in quantum cascade laser research and novel applications

Novel In-Plane Semiconductor Lasers II, 2003

Continuous wave (CW) operation of quantum cascade lasers is reported up to a temperature of 312 K. The junction down mounted devices were designed as buried heterostructure lasers with high-reflection coatings on both facets. This resulted in CW operation at an emission wavelength of 9.1 µm with an optical power ranging from 17 mW at 293 K to 3 mW at 312 K. A distributed feedback type device was fabricated and tested as well. It showed CW singlemode operation up to 260 K. These results demonstrate the potential of quantum cascade lasers as CW mid-infrared light sources for high-resolution spectroscopy and free space telecommunication systems.

Recent advances in continuous wave quantum cascade lasers

Proceedings of the 29th International Symposium on Compound Semiconductors, IOP vol. 174

Quantum cascade lasers: a versatile source for precise measurements in the mid/far-infrared range

Measurement Science and Technology, 2014

We provide an overview of recent developments of quantum cascade lasers (QCLs), from the mid-infrared (mid-IR) to the far-IR (THz) range, with a special focus on their metrological-grade applications in a number of fields. A special emphasis on the physics of the QCLs allows underlining peculiar effects and device features recently unveiled that pave the way to novel demanding photonics applications.

Long-Wave IR Quantum Cascade Lasers for emission in the λ = 8-12μm spectral region

Optical Materials Express, 2013

In this article we review a selection of recent results on longwave quantum cascade lasers both for high power and for single-mode emission. Both MBE-grown and MOCVD-grown devices are examined and compared. Currently, LWIR QC lasers exhibit output powers in the Wattlevel range and up to double-digit conversion efficiencies in the best cases.

High power quantum cascade lasers and applications

2009

I will describe the developments leading to QCLs producing 3 > W of CW/RT power from 4 mum-12 mum and their applications in high sensitivity CWA and explosives detection, DIRCM, target designators and beacons and human breath analysis.

Current Status of High Performance Quantum Cascade Lasers at the Center for Quantum Devices (original) (raw)

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