Evaluating resonances in PCSEL structures based on modal indices

Abstract

The frequently sought after combination of characteristics in semiconductor lasers of high power together with narrow beam divergence and monochromatic output is usually difficult to attain. The photonic crystal surface emitting laser (PCSEL) is one category of device, however, which tends to provide the above-mentioned desirable output features. The PCSEL uses a large area optically active surface but with a two-dimensional periodic structure that enables it to generate high power in a narrow vertically emitted beam yet maintaining single wavelength operation. A primary requirement to model PCSELs is to obtain the optical field resonances that identify the lasing mode. This study presents an alternative method for evaluating the resonances, based essentially on the transfer-matrix technique and wave propagation in multilayer medium, which is relatively easy to formulate, and has quite modest demands on computing requirements.