Thermal properties of THz quantum cascade lasers based on different optical waveguide configurations

We compare the thermal properties of THz quantum cascade lasers (QCLs) fabricated with metal-metal optical waveguides based on Au/Au or In/Au wafer bonding. This information was obtained from the analysis of microprobe band-to-band photoluminescence spectra measured on devices operating in continuous wave (cw). The experimental normalized thermal resistances (R-L*), show that the use of Au/Au wafer bonding optimizes the heat dissipation. Comparison with surface-plasmon based THz QCLs, demonstrates that the use of metal-metal wafer bonding can allow cw operation at progressively higher temperatures. (c) 2006 American Institute of Physics.