Phase-matched mid-infrared difference frequency generation in GaAs-based waveguides

Abstract

We demonstrate difference frequency generation of 4 μm radiation from 1 to 1.32 μm pumps in GaAs-based waveguides. Phase matching is obtained by using form birefringence in selectively oxidized AlGaAs/AlAs multilayers. A tunability over 50 cm−1 around 4 μm is demonstrated by changing the waveguide temperature and one pump wavelength. A much larger tunability may be achieved by using two tunable sources.

Parametric fluorescence in semiconductor waveguides

“…The first achievement of form-birefringent PM in an AlOx-based heterostructure was demonstrated with a midinfrared difference frequency generation (DFG) from two near-infrared guided waves [27]. Two continuous-wave (CW) pump lasers were end-fire coupled in a GaAs/AlOx waveguide: a TE polarized Nd:YAG laser at 1.32 µm and a tunable, TM polarized Ti:Sa laser.…”

Widely tunable frequency conversion in monolithic semiconductor waveguides at 24 μm

“…The comparison between the DFG efficiency of the device reported here with other AlGaAs devices phase-matched using other techniques is noteworthy. For example, in an early work in form birefringence PM using GaAs∕AlO x waveguides, a DFG with an efficiency of 3% W −1 cm −2 around 4 μm wavelength was measured using CW pump and signal at 1 and 1.32 μm [16] which was an order of magnitude more efficient than that of the devices here. In addition, the DFG has been demonstrated in orientation-patterned GaAs (OP-GaAs) for generation of mid-IR light.…”

Semiconductor sources of twin photons for quantum information

“…With such waveguides, difference frequency generation (DFG) [10], second harmonic generation (SHG) [11] and parametric fluorescence (PF) [12] have been reported. Hereafter, we detail the results obtained for PF which is an interesting process for obtaining twin photons.…”