Mode-Locked Chip Laser using Waveguide Arrays

TL;DR

This paper presents a theoretical demonstration of a chip-scale mode-locked laser using waveguide arrays for pulse shaping and stabilization, enabling integrated, broadband laser devices on semiconductor chips.

Contribution

It introduces a novel waveguide array architecture as an effective saturable absorber for on-chip mode-locking in semiconductor lasers.

Findings

Achieves robust mode-locking through waveguide arrays

Enables integration with existing semiconductor technology

Potential for on-chip broadband laser devices

Abstract

We demonstrate theoretically that robust mode-locking can be achieved on a semiconductor chip with a waveguide array architecture. The waveguide arrays are used as an ideal saturable absorption mechanism for initial noise start-up as well as pulse shaping and stabilization. The cavity gain is provided by an injection current and forward biasing of the semiconductor material. The technology can be integrated directly with semiconductor architectures and technologies, thus allowing for the potential of an on-chip, broadband device.