Surface mode coupling in GaAs/AlGaAs laser diodes—A novel concept for a single laser mode emission

Abstract

We demonstrate a novel concept for a mode selection mechanism in surface emitting laser diodes. This concept is based on a strong coupling process between the laser mode and a surface mode on top of the laser diode. The mode selection mechanism is the result of a strong feedback from the surface mode into the laser diode. Nearly single-modelike emission spectra are achieved from surface emitting GaAs/AlGaAs laser diodes and qualitatively explained by a model based on ray optics. The main advantage of this type of laser diode is its simple fabrication and the possibility of adjusting the desired wavelength independent of the growth process by external technological parameters.

<title>Quasi-single-mode surface-emitting laser diodes based on surface mode emission</title>

“…9. If this light adds constructively to the laser light in the cavity, it can act as an additional gain.…”

Single-mode and single-beam emission from surface emitting laser diodes based on surface-mode emission

“…6,7 In addition, we have recently proposed this technique as a flexible concept for a new type of SLM laser diode. 8 A real singlemode emission from this type of laser diode, however, has not been achieved yet. 9 In this letter, we report on a single-mode and singlebeam emission achieved from SME laser diodes.…”