Sensors and Electron Devices Directorate Research Areas

Semiconductor Lasers, Detectors, and Optoelectronic Integration

Advisor: Chang, Wayne H. (wayne.chang@us.army.mil 301-394-5798)
Keywords: Semiconductor lasers; Quantum wells; Heterostructures and heterojunctions; Optical signal processing

Discrete semiconductor lasers and detectors are key elements in optical analog and digital transmission systems. Research is in progress to optimize such devices for high-speed operation and optoelectronic integration. As discrete components, current investigations center on using strain and strain-compensated quantum confined structures for low-threshold, high-bandwidth lasers. PIN detectors at both 0.85 μm and 1.3 μm wavelengths are also being grown and fabricated in-house.
Both discrete projects are related to concurrent work on optoelectronic integration. Two particular areas are (1) integrated emitters and detectors for radio frequency analog links and (2) arrays of emitters and detectors for optical interconnects and more generically parallel optical signal processing. For the latter area, we use a novel heterostructure arrangement that allows for concurrent fabrication of both lasers and field-effect transistors using a single epitaxial growth sequence. To be successful, such approaches must demonstrate a clear viability and performance advantage over other alternatives such as hybrid bonding. Opportunities exist to continue this research at a discrete device level and circuit level to provide “proof-of-principle” demonstrations of such technologies. SEDD has the capabilities to grow the initial material and fabricate through to finished circuits. As this type of technology progresses, simulation and modeling will be of increasing importance. The wider aspects of this project encompass user input regarding applications and collaboration with other organizations interested in similar projects.