Commercialization of self-assembled quantum-dot lasers: From optical communication to consumer electronics

Quantum-dot lasers, first proposed by Arakawa and Sakaki of University of Tokyo in 1982 [1], are semiconductor lasers with nano-sized semiconductor particles called quantum dots as light sources. Self-assembled quantum dots emitting light of 1.3 µm was found in 1995 [2], and room-temperature continuous lasing was achieved at the wavelength in 1999[3]. Based on subsequent research achievements under industry-academia collaboration in Japan, QD Laser, Inc. [4] was launched to commercialize quantum-dot lasers, which have a variety of superior performance to conventional lasers like temperature insensitivity, high temperature operation, low-power consumption, low-cost mass production and SHG-based visible light lasing including green to realize mobile laser projectors. This talk will provide QD laser activity, i.e., the organization, applications & markets from optical communication to consumer electronics, self-assembled quantum-dot lasers, the product portfolio and the business model.