Nonlinear GaInAs/AlInAs/InP quantum cascade laser sources for wavelength generation in the 2.7-70 μm wavelength range

In this paper we describe the design and performance of nonlinear quantum cascade laser sources for near-infrared and terahertz applications. Our devices are based on monolithically integrated mid-infrared quantum cascade lasers and passive nonlinear structures which provide a giant nonlinear response for the pumping frequency. Such design concept can be applied for both short-wavelength and long-wavelength generation. In our work, short-wavelength devices were based on the concept of second-harmonic generation whereas long-wavelength devices utilized difference-frequency generation. With this approach we demonstrate room-temperature operation down to 2.7 μm for near-infrared devices and up to 70 μm at 210 K for terahertz devices. The performance of our nonlinear devices is very sensitive to the resonance condition for the pump and nonlinearity. We demonstrate that, once resonant, nonlinear powers in the mW range are available.

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