A self-consistent two-dimensional model of quantum-well semiconductor lasers: optimization of a GRIN-SCH SQW laser structure

Author

Li, Zhan-Ming ; Dzurko, Kenneth M. ; Delâge, André ; McAlister, Sean P.

Author_Institution

Inst. of Microstructural Sci., Nat. Res. Council of Canada, Ottawa, Ont., Canada

Volume

28

Issue

4

fYear

1992

fDate

4/1/1992 12:00:00 AM

Firstpage

792

Lastpage

803

Abstract

A two-dimensional model for quantum-well lasers that solves, self-consistently, the semiconductor equations together with the complex scalar wave equation is described. It incorporates a position- and wavelength-dependent gain function which is derived from a quantum mechanical calculation. Such a model enables one to predict the characteristics of a quantum-well laser with a minimal number of empirical parameters. The output of the model includes light-current characteristics, the current distribution, and the optical field intensity distribution, obtained simultaneously in the calculation. Examples for modeling GRIN-SCH SQW (graded-index separate confinement heterostructure single quantum well) ridge wave guide lasers are given, and good agreement with experimental results is obtained. The model is used to optimize the geometry of a GRIN-SCH SQW laser for minimum threshold current and maximum efficiency

Keywords

gradient index optics; laser theory; semiconductor junction lasers; GRIN-SCH SQW laser structure; complex scalar wave equation; current distribution; empirical parameters; geometry; graded-index separate confinement heterostructure single quantum well; light-current characteristics; maximum efficiency; minimum threshold current; optical field intensity distribution; optimization; position dependent gain function; quantum mechanical calculation; quantum-well semiconductor lasers; ridge wave guide lasers; self-consistent two-dimensional model; semiconductor equations; wavelength-dependent gain function; Current distribution; Geometrical optics; Laser modes; Partial differential equations; Potential well; Predictive models; Quantum mechanics; Quantum well lasers; Quantum wells; Solid modeling;

fLanguage

English

Journal_Title

Quantum Electronics, IEEE Journal of

Publisher

ieee

ISSN

0018-9197

Type

jour

DOI

10.1109/3.135196

Filename

135196