Abstract
In this work, electron transport in GaAs/AlGaAs quantum cascade lasers operating at far-infrared wavelengths is calculated self-consistently using an intersubband scattering model. Subband populations and carrier transition rates are calculated and all relevant electron-electron and electron-LO phonon scatterings between the injector/collector and active region levels (13-levels in total) are included. Employing an energy balance equation which includes the influence of both electron-LO phonon and electron-electron scattering, the method also includes the evaluation of the electron temperature of the non-equilibrium carrier distributions in the device. The calculated threshold currents (Jth = 250-300 kA/cm2) and electric field-current density characteristics (current saturation is predicted at ∼680 A/cm2), are in good qualitative and quantitative agreement with measurements in a recent experimental realization (Kohler et al, Nature, vol. 417, pp. 156-159, 2002). Due to the increased influence on electron-electron scatterings, the electron temperature is found to be more sensitive to the current density than in mid-infrared devices. The technique promises to be a powerful tool for the optimization of new, improved Terahertz quantum cascade lasers.
Original language | English |
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Title of host publication | IEEE 10th International Conference on Terahertz Electronics, Proceedings |
Subtitle of host publication | THz 2002 |
Editors | J M Chamberlain, A G Davies, P Harrison, E H Linfield, R E Miles, S Withington |
Publisher | Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Inc. |
Pages | 97-100 |
Number of pages | 4 |
ISBN (Print) | 0780376307 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 7 Nov 2002 |
Externally published | Yes |
Event | 10th IEEE International Conference on Terahertz Electronics - Cambridge, United Kingdom Duration: 9 Sep 2002 → 10 Sep 2002 Conference number: 10 |
Conference
Conference | 10th IEEE International Conference on Terahertz Electronics |
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Abbreviated title | THz 2002 |
Country/Territory | United Kingdom |
City | Cambridge |
Period | 9/09/02 → 10/09/02 |