External cavity quantum-cascade laser tunable from 8.2 to 10.4 μm using an inhomogenously broadened gain element

Abstract

An inhomogenous quantum-cascade structure based on two bound-to-continuum designs was used as gain element in a grating-coupled external cavity laser. This laser was tunable from 8.2 to 10.4 mum in pulsed mode on a thermoelectric cooler.