Terahertz quantum cascade lasers and real-time THz imaging

Abstract

Based on a robust THz gain medium that rapidly depopulates the lower state using resonant LO-phonons and a novel metal-metal waveguide structure for mode confinement, we have developed THz quantum- cascade lasers with many performance records. These include but not limited to: the highest pulsed operating temperature of-170 K, the highest CW operating temperature of 117 K, the longest wavelength of-190 mum, and the highest output power levels of-250 mW. Using these lasers and a 320times240 pixel focal-plane array camera, real-time THz imaging is performed at a rate of 20 frames/second.