Equivalent circuit-level model and improvement of terahertz quantum cascade lasers

Abstract

An equivalent circuit-level model of terahertz (THz) quantum cascade lasers (QCLs) is developed by using rate equations. This model can be employed to investigate the characteristics of THz QCLs accurately and to improve their design. We use the circuit-level model to analyse a new active structure, which can improve the performance of THz QCLs by means of enhancing carrier injection. The simulation result shows that THz QCLs with the new active structure have a much higher performance compared with conventional THz QCLs. The high-performance THz QCLs are expected to be operated at higher temperatures.