Room temperature continuous wave operation of λ∼3-3.2μm quantum cascade lasers

Abstract

We demonstrate quantum cascade lasers emitting at wavelengths of 3-3.2μm in the InP-based material system. The laser core consists of GaInAs/AlInAs using strain balancing technique. In room temperature pulsed mode operation, threshold current densities of 1.66kA/cm2 and 1.97kA/cm2, and characteristic temperatures (T0) of 108K and 102K, are obtained for the devices emitting at 3.2μm and 3μm, respectively. Room temperature continuous wave operation is achieved at both wavelengths. © 2012 American Institute of Physics.