Abstract: A material for use in a laser heterostructure which is lattice matched material to ZnSe and has a high band gap. The material is Mg.sub.y Zn.sub.1-y S.sub.x Se.sub.1-x with the ratio of sulphur to magnesium of 0.28/0.19. Lasing devices constructed from layers of this material and ZnSe can be either electron beam pumped or electrically driven.