Single-Mode Continuous-Wave InP-Based Photonic Crystal Surface Emitting Lasers at 2 µm

In this SBIR Direct to Phase II project, we propose to design, fabricate and demonstrate room- temperature continuous-wave operating single mode photonic crystal surface-emitting lasers emitting at 2 µm with high power (P > 0.5 W), intrinsic narrow linewidth (<1 kHz) and high beam quality (M2 < 1.2). The ultimate goal of this project is to develop next-generation high-power semiconductor diode lasers with high wall-plug efficiency required to utilize them in remote gas sensing, light detection and ranging (LiDAR) and optical communication applications. Our research will combine the design, modeling, material growth, fabrication and integration-level technical expertise of AdTech Photonics and Ohio State University (OSU) researchers. Both AdTech and OSU have world-class semiconductor research facilities that will support targeted R&D relevant to the proposed research. Our team has already performed a number of preliminary both theoretical and experimental studies including device modeling, material growth, device fabrication and testing, which not only shows the technical feasibility of the project but also paves the way for implementing the diode lasers with the target performance metrics. This research will also help achieve a power-scalable platform with reduced size, weight and power – cost (SWaP­C), having the potential to provide disruptive capabilities in DoD applications.