ANSWER: Artificial nanomaterials for short wavelength emission in the infra-red

• Research unit: EU RFP
• Project number: 03.0575-2

Key words (English)

New materials; mid-infrared; quantum cascade lasers

Alternative project number (English)

EU project number: 505642

Research programs (English)

EU-programme: 6. Frame Research Programme - 1.3 Telematic systems

Short description (English)

See abstract

Abstract (English)

ANSWER addresses the development of a new class of artificial materials for quantum cascade lasers. ANSWER is the response to fill the technological gap of semiconductor lasers in the 3-5µm wavelength region. In this project we propose a nanotechnological solution based on large conduction band offset semiconductor heterostructures: These materials are needed for the realization of 3-5µm QC lasers. This wavelength region promises to bring substantial benefits to several important applications such as optical free-space communications and laser based spectroscopy for trace gas detection. These applications, that stand to improve Europe's social and industrial infrastructure, are undeveloped due to the lack of practical laser sources.
The QC laser uses nanometer scale layers of semiconductor material to quantum mechanically engineer the electronic and optical properties of the device. This gives added functionality to these semiconductors, over and above their natural properties, and in this respect creates an artificial nanomaterial. Through ANSWER we aim to advance Europe's leading position with regards to QC laser technology and thus create the foundations to stimulate future industrial development within the E. U.
The consortium brings together some of the leading players in QC laser technology, who have a world class reputation, a proven research track record and a wealth of experience for QC laser development. Main objectives are:
I) To make significant advances in the production of new large conduction band offset material platforms for QC lasers. 2) Assess new technologies and quantum designs for quantum cascade lasers in the 3-5µm gap. 3) Develop QC technologies that act as stepping stones towards 1.55µm emission wavelengths.
The ultimate project deliverable is to produce a laser working under continuous wave (CW) operation, with simple thermoelectric cooling. High temperature CW operation is essential for the wider dissemination of this technology.

References in databases (English)

Swiss Database: Euro-DB of the
State Secretariat for Education and Research
Hallwylstrasse 4
CH-3003 Berne, Switzerland
Tel. [phone]
Swiss Project-Number: 03.0575-2