Thermo-electro-optical analysis of subwavelength grating-mirror VCSELs

A vertical-cavity laser consists of a top mirror, an optical cavity containing a gain medium, and a bottom mirror. Its typical size is similar as a human hair. Light generated in the gain medium passes through the optical cavity and are reflected back to the cavity by the two mirrors. By repeating this cycle, the light is amplified and laser action starts. Due to this light generation mechanism, the properties of a laser is significantly influenced by the properties of the optical cavity and two mirrors. Gratings are one- or two-dimensional periodic structures mad of semiconductor or dielectrics. A one-dimensional grating looks like a barbecue grill and its typical size is 1/200 times thinner than a human hair. Specially designed gratings have high reflectivity adequate for laser mirrors. One of the important features of the grating mirror is that its reflection properties can be easily controlled by changing the grating design. Thus, using a grating mirror instead of a conventional mirror opens a unique way of designing laser properties through engineering the grating mirro, but also possibilities of many novel applications, which was not feasible with the conventional mirrors. In this project, the physics of the grating mirror and its effects on laser properties will be rigorously investigated. by using this understanding, two novel application devices will be optimized. For this aim, an advanced laser simulator will be developed for the first time.