Overview of quantum cascade laser research at the Center for Quantum Devices

Abstract

Over the past several years, our group has endeavored to develop high power quantum cascade lasers for a variety of remote and high sensitivity infrared applications. The systematic optimization of laser performance has allowed for demonstration of high power, continuous-wave quantum cascade lasers operating above room temperature. In the past year alone, the efficiency and power of our short wavelength lasers (&lambda;~4.8 &mu;m) has doubled. In continuous wave at room temperature, we have now separately demonstrated ~10% wallplug efficiency and ~700 mW of output power. Up to now, we have been able to show that room temperature continuous wave operation with >100 mW output power in the 3.8< &lambda;<11.5 &mu;m wavelength range is possible.