Terahertz Quantum-Cascade Lasers: From Design to Applications

IF 3.9 2区工程技术 Q2 ENGINEERING, ELECTRICAL & ELECTRONIC

IEEE Transactions on Terahertz Science and Technology Pub Date : 2024-06-17 DOI:10.1109/TTHZ.2024.3415501

Xiang Lü;Benjamin Röben;Valentino Pistore;Klaus Biermann;Esperanza Luna;Martin Wienold;Heinz-Wilhelm Hübers;Jente R. Wubs;Jean-Pierre H. van Helden;Pierre Gellie;Lutz Schrottke

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Abstract

We report on the development and the application of high-performance terahertz (THz) quantum-cascade lasers (QCLs) based on GaAs/Al

$_{x}$

$_{1-x}$

As heterostructures. These lasers with emission frequencies between 2.6 and 4.7 THz are based on a hybrid design, which is preferred for continuous-wave applications. For the design of the active regions, we employ an efficient Fourier-transform-based model, which also allows for the simulation of heterostructures with gradual interfaces. Since the inherent interface width is on the same order as the thickness of the layers in the active region, the use of nominally binary AlAs barriers results in an effective Al content up to

$x$

$=$

0.6 for the tallest barriers. For practical applications, Fabry–Pérot lasers based on single-plasmon waveguides are fabricated. Single-mode operation is in most cases achieved by using short cavities. In particular, GaAs/AlAs THz QCLs show a sufficiently high wall plug efficiency so that they can be operated in miniature mechanical cryocoolers. Currently, high-performance THz QCLs are used for commercial continuous-wave, table-top THz systems, local oscillators in 3.5- and 4.7-THz heterodyne spectrometers, and absorption spectrometers for the determination of the density of atomic oxygen in plasmas.

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太赫兹量子级联激光器：从设计到应用

我们报告了基于 GaAs/Al$_{x}$Ga$_{1-x}$As 异质结构的高性能太赫兹（THz）量子级联激光器（QCL）的开发和应用情况。这些发射频率在 2.6 至 4.7 太赫兹之间的激光器基于混合设计，是连续波应用的首选。在设计有源区时，我们采用了基于傅立叶变换的高效模型，该模型还可模拟具有渐变界面的异质结构。由于固有的界面宽度与有源区各层的厚度处于同一数量级，因此使用名义上的二元 AlAs 势垒可使最高势垒的有效铝含量达到 $x$ $=$ 0.6。在实际应用中，我们制作了基于单等离子体波导的法布里-佩罗激光器。在大多数情况下，单模运行是通过使用短腔实现的。尤其是砷化镓/砷化镓太赫兹 QCL 具有足够高的壁塞效率，因此可以在微型机械低温冷却器中运行。目前，高性能 THz QCL 已用于商用连续波、台式 THz 系统、3.5THz 和 4.7THz 外差光谱仪中的局部振荡器，以及用于测定等离子体中原子氧密度的吸收光谱仪。

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来源期刊

IEEE Transactions on Terahertz Science and Technology ENGINEERING, ELECTRICAL & ELECTRONIC-OPTICS

CiteScore

7.10

自引率

9.40%

发文量

102

期刊介绍： IEEE Transactions on Terahertz Science and Technology focuses on original research on Terahertz theory, techniques, and applications as they relate to components, devices, circuits, and systems involving the generation, transmission, and detection of Terahertz waves.