Open AccessHigh power continuous wave operation of single mode quantum cascade lasers up to 5 W spanning λ∼3.8-8.3 µm
Author(s) -
Quanyong Lu,
S. Slivken,
Donghai Wu,
Manijeh Razeghi
Publication year - 2020
Publication title -
optics express
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.394
H-Index - 271
ISSN - 1094-4087
DOI - 10.1364/oe.393069
Subject(s) - optics , single mode optical fiber , cascade , quantum cascade laser , materials science , continuous wave , laser , free space optical communication , optoelectronics , semiconductor laser theory , power (physics) , physics , chemistry , chromatography , quantum mechanics
In this work, we report high power continuous wave room-temperature operation single mode quantum cascade lasers in the mid-infrared spectral range from 3.8 to 8.3 µm. Single mode robustness and dynamic range are enhanced by optimizing the distributed feedback grating coupling design and the facet coatings. High power single mode operation is secured by circumventing the over-coupling issue and spatial hole burning effect. Maximum single-facet continuous-wave output power of 5.1 W and wall plug efficiency of 16.6% is achieved at room temperature. Single mode operation with a side mode suppression ratio of 30 dB and single-lobed far field with negligible beam steering is observed. The significantly increased power for single mode emission will boost the QCL applications in long-range free-space communication and remote sensing of hazardous chemicals.