Numerical analysis of DFB lasing action in photonic crystals with quantum dots

We have numerically investigated two-dimensional (2D) distributed feedback (DFB) lasing in a 2D photonic crystal (PhC) with semiconductor quantum dots (QDs). Our analysis is based on the frequency-dependent finite-difference time-domain method, and includes optical gain, spatial distribution, and homogeneous and inhomogeneous broadening effects in a QD ensemble. A very small threshold current of View the MathML source was obtained in a 2D PhC with InAs QDs using realistic material and structural parameters. We also pointed out that improving the size uniformity and controlling the spatial distribution of QDs can reduce the threshold current.