Coherent topological polariton laser

TL;DR

This paper demonstrates highly coherent topological polariton lasing in a one-dimensional SSH lattice, confirming excitonic contributions and robustness against disorder through experimental and theoretical analysis.

Contribution

It provides the first clear observation of topologically protected polariton lasing in a simple SSH geometry, combining experimental results with theoretical modeling.

Findings

Robust polariton lasing observed in a topological defect mode

High temporal coherence confirmed experimentally

Theoretical models accurately reproduce experimental results

Abstract

Topological concepts have been applied to a wide range of fields in order to successfully describe the emergence of robust edge modes that are unaffected by scattering or disorder. In photonics, indications of lasing from topologically protected modes with improved overall laser characteristics were observed. Here, we study exciton-polariton microcavity traps that are arranged in a one-dimensional Su-Schrieffer-Heeger lattice and form a topological defect mode from which we unequivocally observe highly coherent polariton lasing. Additionally, we confirm the excitonic contribution to the polariton lasing by applying an external magnetic field. These systematic experimental findings of robust lasing and high temporal coherence are meticulously reproduced by a combination of a generalized Gross-Pitaevskii model and a Lindblad master equation model. Thus, by using the comparatively simple SSH geometry, we are able to describe and control the exciton-polariton topological lasing, allowing for a deeper understanding of topological effects on microlasers.