Optical Gain and Lasing in Low Dimensional Silicon: The Quest for an Injection Laser

Abstract

In this chapter, I review the various approaches to achieve an injection laser by using low dimensional or nanostructured silicon. After an initial discussion of the basic on light amplification and gain in semiconductor, I consider the limitations of silicon, in particular its band structure. Then, I present the experimental data about the observation of optical gain in silicon nanocrystals, in Er3+ ions coupled to silicon nanocrystals, in nanopatterned silicon on insulator and in nano-porous silicon impregnated by dyes. Finally I draw some conclusions on the perspectives to build a nano-silicon laser.