Terahertz Quantum Cascade Laser Operating at 2.94THz

The development of quantum cascade laser at 2.94 THz is reported. The laser structure is based on a bound-to-continuum active region and a semi-insulating surface-plasmon waveguide. Lasing is observed up to a heat-sink temperature of 70 K in pulsed mode with light power of 4.75 mW at 10 K and 1 mW at 70 K. A threshold current density of 296.5 A/cm² and an internal quantum efficiency of 1.57×10⁻² per cascade period are also observed at 10 K. The characteristic temperature of this laser is extracted to be T₀= 57.5 K.