Scaling the Output Power of Monolithic Phase-Locked Arrays of Quantum Cascade Lasers
Abstract
We are addressing the key challenges remaining to realize high brightness (i.e., near diffraction-limited beams) arrays with multi-watt (>5 W) QCW/CW average output powers. We have demonstrated QCL arrays that employ MOCVD regrowth for complete current confinement to the element regions, with improved device efficiency. Working with industrial collaborators, we also fabricated reverse-tapered single-spatial-mode buried heterostructure QCL lasers with coherent output power of 1.6 W QCW, with virtually no beam steering. Parallel efforts use frequency domain and steady-state thermal reflectance measurements to determine the thermal conductivity of the materials comprising the QCL structures continued. We have completed characterization of the cross-plane thermal conductivity of the QCL active region superlattice materials as a function of temperature and interface density. These studies give us new insights into phonon transport in SL materials relevant to QCL active regions. Finally, we performed preliminary high-spatial resolution X-ray mapping of the QCL facet during device operation. These techniques give us insights into strain fields and degradation pathways in the QCL.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 22, 2023
- Accession Number
- AD1230692
Entities
People
- Brian M. Foley
- D. Botez
- L. J. Mawst
- Venkatraman Gopalan
Organizations
- Pennsylvania State University
- University of Wisconsin–Madison