Edge-emitting polariton laser and amplifier based on a ZnO waveguide

TL;DR

This paper reports the demonstration of edge-emitting polariton lasing and amplification in ZnO waveguides, highlighting the potential for integrated polariton circuits with fast propagating modes.

Contribution

It introduces a novel edge-emitting polariton laser and amplifier in ZnO waveguides, with direct dispersion measurement confirming polaritonic lasing modes.

Findings

Lasing observed from 5 to 300 K

Amplification of guided polariton modes demonstrated

Threshold comparable to planar ZnO microcavities

Abstract

We demonstrate edge-emitting exciton-polariton (polariton) lasing from 5 to 300 K and amplification of non-radiative guided polariton modes within ZnO waveguides. The mode dispersion below and above the lasing threshold is directly measured using gratings present on top of the sample, fully demonstrating the polaritonic nature of the lasing modes. The threshold is found to be similar to that of radiative polarions in planar ZnO microcavities. These results open broad perspectives for guided polaritonics by allowing an easier and more straightforward implementation of polariton integrated circuits exploiting fast propagating polaritons.