Monolithic Widely Tunable Quantum Cascade Laser

Maxion Technologies proposes to develop a robust, high power, monolithic, widely tunable Quantum Cascade (QC) laser for use in explosives and chemical sensing applications. We plan to implement a multi-section QC laser to create a monolithically tunable device, similar to those demonstrated in the near IR for telecommunications. This laser will be tuned through application of voltage to tuning elements incorporated directly in the QC laser without the need of external tuning optics or thermal tuning of the laser assembly as a whole. As a result, this laser will be rapidly tunable and usable in field environments due to its insensitivity to shock and vibration, while the wide tuning range of the device will allow for enhanced ability to discriminate against background chemicals. A wide range of defense, security and commercial applications are envisioned for this device, including stand-off chemical sensing, frequency agile LIDAR and process monitoring. This laser will achieve a tuning range of plus/minus 5 percent of the center wavelength, with an output power greater than 50 mW.