Self-consistent simulations of quantum cascade laser structures for frequency comb generation

Abstract

Maxwell–Bloch equations are widely used to model the dynamics due to coherent light-matter interaction in quantum cascade laser (QCL) structures, which plays an essential role especially for the generation of frequency combs and mode-locked pulses. While the modest numerical complexity of the Maxwell–Bloch system allows for a full spatiotemporal treatment, its main disadvantage is the inclusion of dissipation by empirical dephasing rates and electron lifetimes. We present a self-consistent multi-domain approach which couples the Maxwell–Bloch equations to advanced carrier transport simulations based on a density matrix Monte Carlo technique, yielding the scattering and dephasing rates. In this way, the compact spatiotemporal modeling of the carrier-light dynamics by the Maxwell–Bloch system can be combined with the versatility and reliability of self-consistent carrier transport approaches. Simulation results are shown for a QCL-based terahertz frequency comb source, and good agreement with experiment is obtained.