Abstract

The terahertz (THz) spectral region, covering frequencies from 1 to 10 THz, is highly interesting for a large variety of applications. The typical ones are: real-time imaging, heterodyne detection or spectroscopy. A strong need for a reliable semiconductor source with a high design potential exists. The THz quantum-cascade laser (QCL) has become the preferred solution due to the flexibility of the gain medium. In order to manipulate the resonator properties, photonic crystals (PhCs) are an excellent way. These artificial crystals for light offer a designable dispersion relation. All optical properties of the resonator are determined purely by design. The natural PhC choice for QCLs are arrays of isolated pillars. This type of crystal shows full photonic band gaps for TM-polarized light, the polarization emitted by QCLs.

© 2011 Optical Society of America