Abstract

Quantum wells are made from alternating thin (e.g. 100 Å) layers of two different semiconductors. These dimensions are so small that physical mechanisms can be engineered on a quantum-mechanical level, either to improve existing physical effects or to create new ones. The topic of the physics of layered semiconductor structures is one of intense current research interest in solid state physics. In optics, we see the consequences in linear and nonlinear optical properties and in electrooptical effects. (For recent reviews, see e.g. Refs. 1-5). Many of these effects are seen under rather practical conditions (e.g. room temperature), and are compatible with laser diode sources and with semiconductor electronics in wavelengths, in power and voltage levels, and in materials and fabrication. Although the quantum well materials are sophisticated structures, an impressive fabrication technology already exists through molecular beam epitaxy and other related semiconductor growth techniques. As a result, many interesting optical devices have been proposed and demonstrated.

© 1989 Optical Society of America