Abstract
The development of teranertz (THz) quantum cascade lasers (QCLs) has
progressed considerably since their advent almost a decade ago. THz QCLs operating
in a frequency range from 1.4 to 4 THz with electron-phonon scattering mediated
depopulation schemes are described. Several different types of GaAs/AlGaAs
superlattice designs are reviewed. Some of the best temperature performances are
obtained by the so-called resonant-phonon designs that are described. Operation
above a temperature of 160 K has been obtained across the spectrum for THz QCLs
operating at ν >1.8 THz. The maximum operating temperature of previously
reported THz QCLs has empirically been limited to a value of ~ħѡ/kB. A new
design scheme for THz QCLs with scattering-assisted injection is shown to surpass
this empirical temperature barrier, and is promising to improve the maximum
operating temperatures of THz QCLs even further.
© 2011 Chinese Optics Letters
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