Patent ID: 6841805
Filing Date: 2005-01-11
Classification: B82Y,H01L

Abstract:
1. A method for generating mid-infrared light comprising: providing a (111)-oriented multiple quantum well structure including a plurality, n, of quantum wells, where n is in the range of from 10 to about 70 and wherein each of said quantum wells further includes a Pb 1-y Sr y Z layer where Z is selected from the group consisting of S, Se, and Te, y is in the range of from about 0 atomic percent to about 15 atomic percent characterized by a layer thickness in the range of from about 2 nm to about 40 nm disposed between two Pb 1-x Sr x Z layers wherein x>y and x is in the range of from about 0 atomic percent to about 20 atomic percent and wherein each of said Pb 1-x Sr x Z layers is further characterized by a layer thickness in the range of from about 30 nm to 70 nm and a (111)-oriented silicon substrate; maintaining said (111)-oriented multiple quantum well structure at a temperature in the range of from about 5° C. to about 55° C.; and pumping said (111)-oriented multiple quantum well structure with a pump beam of laser light characterized by a pump laser light wavelength shorter than a mid-infrared light wavelength so that mid-infrared light is emitted from said (111)-oriented multiple quantum well structure.