Abstract
Terahertz frequency quantum cascade lasers (THz QCLs) are compact solid-state sources of terahertz radiation that were first demonstrated in 2002. They have a broad range of potential applications ranging from gas sensing and non-destructive testing, through to security and medical imaging, with many polycrystalline compounds having distinct fingerprint spectra in the terahertz frequency range. In this article, we demonstrate an electrically-switchable dual-wavelength THz QCL which will enable spectroscopic information to be obtained within a THz QCLbased imaging system. The device uses the same active region for both emission wavelengths: in forward bias, the laser emits at 2.3 THz; in reverse bias, it emits at 4THz. The corresponding threshold current densities are 490A/cm2 and 330 A/cm2, respectively, with maximum operating temperatures of 98 K and 120 K.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 19926-19932 |
Number of pages | 7 |
Journal | Optics Express |
Volume | 17 |
Issue number | 22 |
Early online date | 19 Oct 2009 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 26 Oct 2009 |
Externally published | Yes |