Quantum-cascade-laser active regions on metamorphic buffer layers

L. J. Mawst, A. Rajeev, J. D. Kirch, T. W. Kim, D. Botez, B. Zutter, P. Buelow, K. Schulte, T. F. Kuech, A. Wood, S. E. Babcock, T. Earles

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

1 Scopus citations

Abstract

Strained-layer superlattice (SL) structures have been grown by metalorganic vapor phase epitaxy (MOVPE) on metamorphic buffer layers (MBLs) for application in intersubband-transition devices, such as quantum cascade lasers. Using the MBL as an adjustable lattice-parameter platform, we have designed relatively-low-strain quantum-cascade-laser structures that will emit in the 3.0-3.5 μm wavelength range while suppressing carrier leakage from the upper laser level. Thick (10-12 μm) compositionally-graded, hydride-vapor-phase-epitaxy (HVPE)-grown MBL structures are employed. To improve the planarity of the MBL surface, we employ chemical mechanical polishing (CMP) followed by wet chemical etching prior to the growth of the SL/device structures. We find that the wet-chemical etching step is crucial to remove residual damage introduced during CMP. 20-period InxGa1-xAs (wells)/AlyIn1-yAs (barriers) SLs grown on the MBLs are characterized by x-ray diffraction (XRD). Intersubband electroluminescence emission is observed in the 3.5 μm wavelength range from devices employing such SL structures.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationQuantum Sensing and Nanophotonic Devices XII
EditorsManijeh Razeghi, Eric Tournie, Gail J. Brown
PublisherSPIE
ISBN (Electronic)9781628414608
DOIs
StatePublished - 2015
EventQuantum Sensing and Nanophotonic Devices XII - San Francisco, United States
Duration: 8 Feb 201512 Feb 2015

Publication series

NameProceedings of SPIE - The International Society for Optical Engineering
Volume9370
ISSN (Print)0277-786X
ISSN (Electronic)1996-756X

Conference

ConferenceQuantum Sensing and Nanophotonic Devices XII
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CitySan Francisco
Period8/02/1512/02/15

Keywords

  • MOCVD
  • Metamorphic buffer layer
  • QCL
  • Semiconductor laser

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Quantum-cascade-laser active regions on metamorphic buffer layers'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this