Abstract: Single-mode distributed-feedback (DFB) lasers including single mode DFB waveguides with tapered grating structures are provided herein. Tapered grating structures provide for single mode DFB waveguides with predictable single mode operation. Uniform grating structures may provide for single mode operation, however DFB waveguides implementing uniform grating structures may operate at one of two single modes. Advantageously, DFB waveguides with tapered gratings operate with a spectrally narrow single mode at the same predictable single mode for all DFB waveguides with substantially identical specifications. Such predictability may lead to increased yield during manufacture of DFB waveguides with tapered gratings.

Abstract: Single-mode distributed-feedback (DFB) lasers including single mode DFB waveguides with tapered grating structures are provided herein. Tapered grating structures provide for single mode DFB waveguides with predictable single mode operation. Uniform grating structures may provide for single mode operation, however DFB waveguides implementing uniform grating structures may operate at one of two single modes. Advantageously, DFB waveguides with tapered gratings operate with a spectrally narrow single mode at the same predictable single mode for all DFB waveguides with substantially identical specifications. Such predictability may lead to increased yield during manufacture of DFB waveguides with tapered gratings.

Abstract: Quantum cascade (QC) lasers and methods of fabricating such QC lasers are provided. The QC lasers incorporate a DFB grating without requiring the use of relying on epitaxial regrowth processes. The DFB gratings are formed as sidewall gratings along the lateral length of the QC active region, or the DFB gratings are formed atop the lateral length of the QC active region, and wherein the top DFB grating is planarized with a polymeric material.

Abstract: Single-mode, distributed feedback interband cascade lasers (ICLs) using distributed-feedback gratings (e.g., lateral Bragg gratings) and methods of fabricating such ICLs are provided. The ICLs incorporate distributed-feedback gratings that are formed above the laser active region and adjacent the ridge waveguide (RWG) of the ICL. The ICLs may incorporate a double-ridge system comprising an optical confinement structure (e.g., a RWG) disposed above the laser active region that comprises the first ridge of the double ridge system, a DFB grating (e.g., lateral Bragg grating) disposed above the laser active region and adjacent the optical confinement structure, and an electric confinement structure that passes at least partially through the laser active region and that defines the boundary of the second ridge comprises and the termination of the DFB grating.

Abstract: Single-mode, distributed feedback interband cascade lasers (ICLs) using distributed-feedback gratings (e.g., lateral Bragg gratings) and methods of fabricating such ICLs are provided. The ICLs incorporate distributed-feedback gratings that are formed above the laser active region and adjacent the ridge waveguide (RWG) of the ICL. The ICLs may incorporate a double-ridge system comprising an optical confinement structure (e.g., a RWG) disposed above the laser active region that comprises the first ridge of the double ridge system, a DFB grating (e.g., lateral Bragg grating) disposed above the laser active region and adjacent the optical confinement structure, and an electric confinement structure that passes at least partially through the laser active region and that defines the boundary of the second ridge comprises and the termination of the DFB grating.

Abstract: Quantum cascade (QC) lasers and methods of fabricating such QC lasers are provided. The QC lasers incorporate a DFB grating without requiring the use of relying on epitaxial regrowth processes. The DFB gratings are formed as sidewall gratings along the lateral length of the QC active region, or the DFB gratings are formed atop the lateral length of the QC active region, and wherein the top DFB grating is planarized with a polymeric material.