Mid-IR type-II quantum well and quantum cascade lasers for remote chemical sensing applications

We report recent progress at the Space Vacuum Epitaxy Center in the development of mid-IR lasers for remote chemical sensing and environmental monitoring applications. A type-II quantum well laser with a record operating temperature of 350K at 3.2 mu m and an output power of 270 mW at room temperature has been demonstrated. Furthermore, a novel type-II quantum cascade laser design, which promises high current injection efficiency, reduced non-radiative losses and, therefore, low threshold current, is also under investigation. With the realization of efficient, high power, compact and easy to operate mid-IR sources, the development of a new generation of remote chemical sensing systems for extra-terrestrial exploration is expected to follow.