Intelligent Multi-Agent Hybrid Systems Control Technology

Not Available Optical time division multiplexed networks for multi-terabit communication links require ultra-fast all optical switches to be feasible. This program will demonstrate an enabling technology, intersubband transitions in AlyGa1-yN/GaN multiple quantum wells (MQWs), that will permit the construction of terabit/sec switches at telecommunication wavelengths. The ultra-fast nature of the intersubband transition (~80 fs) is approximately three orders of magnitude faster than the carrier lifetime, and the wide band gap of the nitride materials offer advantages that make similar intersubband devices constructed out of other material systems impractical. All of these transitions and devices discussed are viable at room temperature. The thrust of this Phase I proposal is to validate the materials science that will enable the above technological applications. The proposed growth method for these structures, Atomic Layer Epitaxy (ALE), has distinct advantages over other more standard growth methods, including precision control of layer thickness and uniformity. Upon verification of the optical properties, optical switches will then be fabricated and characterized. The principal investigators will use their combined and extensive experience in the ALE growth technique, and nitride material characterization to demonstrate AlyGa1-yN/GaN (0.7 < y < 1.0) multiple quantum wells (MQWs) that exhibit intersubband transitions at telecommunications infrared wavelengths.