Patent Publication Number: US-2007099321-A1

Title: Method for fabricating semiconductor laser device

Description:
TECHNICAL FIELD  
      The present invention relates to a method for fabricating a semiconductor laser device which emits a plurality of laser beams of different wavelengths.  
     BACKGROUND ART  
      With the widespread proliferation of digital broadcast or broadband technology, such an era is just around the corner as homes or the like are flooded with a large quantity of digital contents, and higher information recording densities are being demanded. For higher-density media used in optical disc storage systems, 700 MB capacity CDs (Compact Discs) for a light beam of a wavelength of 780 nm have been replaced with 4.7 GB capacity DVDs (Digital Versatile Discs) for a light beam of a wavelength of 650 nm. Further in these days, optical disk systems having a capacity of 20 GB or more have been realized using a light beam of a wavelength of 405 nm.  
      Even with such a high-density recording system, its pickup has to be provided with a laser for a wavelength of 650 nm as well in order to maintain compatibility with the DVDs that have already become widespread.  
      Two-wavelength integrated lasers are desired for such a pickup hat is compatible with a plurality of wavelengths in order for he pickup to be reduced in size and weight. However, a GaN-based semiconductor that realizes a laser for a wavelength range of 405 nm and an AlGaInP-based semiconductor that realizes a laser for a wavelength range of 650 nm are significantly different from each other in physical property, and thus not allowed for monolithic integration on the same substrate. For this reason, such a two-wavelength integrated laser has been suggested which has a hybrid structure (Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2001-230502, Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2000-252593, and Patent Document 3: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2002-118331).  
      A two-wavelength integrated laser described in Patent Document 1 (Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2001-230502) has a first light-emitting element, having a first substrate, for emitting a short-wavelength laser beam (e.g., a wavelength range of 405 nm) and a second light-emitting element, having a second substrate, for emitting a long-wavelength laser beam (e.g., a wavelength range of 650 nm). The first and second light-emitting elements are disposed on top of the other on a support substrate (the so-called sub-mount), thereby realizing a hybrid semiconductor laser device.  
      Here, the first light-emitting element is mounted on the support substrate so as to locate the light-emitting portion on the support substrate side of the first substrate, while the second light-emitting element is mounted on the first light-emitting element so as to locate the light-emitting portion on the first light-emitting element side of the second substrate.  
      In a hybrid semiconductor laser device disclosed in Patent Document 2 (Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2000-252593), the n-electrode and p-electrode of a second laser portion are electrically bonded to the p-electrode and n-electrode of a first laser portion via a fusion metal, respectively, and the substrate on the first laser portion side is then removed. This structure allows the first laser portion and the second laser portion to emit respective laser beams of different wavelengths.  
      A hybrid semiconductor laser device disclosed in Patent Document 3 (Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2002-118331) allows a first semiconductor light-emitting element and a second semiconductor light-emitting element to be directly bonded to each other, thereby realizing a hybrid semiconductor laser device. Here, in order to supply current through the bonded faces, one of the semiconductor light-emitting elements is partially etched to thereby expose the contact layer, so that the current is injected through the contact layer.  
     DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION  
     PROBLEMS TO BE SOLVED BY THE INVENTION  
      As mentioned above, the semiconductor laser device described in Patent Document 1 is configured such that the first light-emitting element and the second light-emitting element are mounted on top of the other on the support substrate. In order to allow current to be injected into the overlapped faces of the first light-emitting element and the second light-emitting element in this structure, each has to be manufactured as a discrete semiconductor chip so as to mount the chip-shaped first and second light-emitting elements on the support substrate on top of the other.  
      To use the two-wavelength integrated laser as a light source for the pickup of an optical disc, the spacing between the two light-emitting points has to be controlled with high precision (±1 μm or less) However, it is difficult to place the chips in proper alignment to provide high precision control to the spacing between the light-emitting points and the direction of emission. Additionally, all the chips have to be individually aligned, resulting in productivity being decreased.  
      Furthermore, in the semiconductor laser device of Patent Document 1, the light-emitting portion of the first light-emitting element is mounted on the support substrate in close proximity thereto, and the light-emitting portion of the second light-emitting element is mounted on the first substrate, which is provided on the first light-emitting element, in close proximity to the first substrate.  
      However, according to this structure, the first substrate having a large thickness is interposed between the first and second light-emitting elements. As described in the aforementioned Patent Document 1, the first substrate (GaN substrate) has a typical thickness of about 100 μm, and thus the light-emitting portion of the first light-emitting element (the position of the light-emitting point) is significantly spaced apart from the light-emitting portion of the second light-emitting element (the position of the light-emitting point).  
      Accordingly, for example, suppose that the semiconductor laser device is incorporated into a pickup to write or read information. In this case, an optical axis alignment of the emission position of the first light-emitting portion (the position of the light-emitting point) with respect to the optical axis of the optical system forming the pickup causes the emission position of the second light-emitting portion to be greatly dislocated from the optical axis of the optical system, resulting in occurrence of aberration or the like.  
      An adverse effect caused by such an optical axis misalignment could be eliminated by adding optical components such as a prism to the optical pickup, but with an increase in the number of parts and costs.  
      In the semiconductor laser device described in Patent Document 2, the p- and n-electrodes of the first laser portion and the n- and p-electrodes of the second laser portion are electrically connected to each other via a fusion metal, respectively. Accordingly, supplying forward drive power to the first laser portion through the fusion metal in order for the first laser portion to lase causes the second laser portion to be reverse biased, whereas supplying forward drive power to the second laser portion through the fusion metal in order for the second laser portion to lase causes the first laser portion to be reverse biased.  
      Accordingly, allowing one of the first laser portion and the second laser portion to lase causes the other laser portion to be reverse biased, thus leading to the problem of reverse breakdown voltage or reverse leakage current.  
      The semiconductor laser device described in Patent Document 3 allows the first semiconductor light-emitting element and the second semiconductor light-emitting element to be directly bonded to each other, thereby integrating the two semiconductor lasers. Thus, when at least any one of the semiconductor lasers is a semiconductor light-emitting element having bumps and dips on the surface (e.g., a ridge stripe type semiconductor laser), the faces near the light-emitting point sides cannot be bonded to each other, and thus the spacing between the light-emitting points cannot be reduced. Furthermore, in the semiconductor laser device described in Patent Document 3, two laser wafers are bonded to each other, and thereafter the AlGaInP-based laser side is partially etched together with the GaAs substrate to expose the GaAs contact layer. However, since the current confinement layer, which is located immediately above the contact layer before the etching, is also formed of GaAs, it is extremely difficult to stop the etching at the GaAs contact layer. Additionally, in order to supply current through the bonded faces, it is necessary to allow the current to flow perpendicular to the contact layer. However, since the contact layer is formed of a semiconductor such as GaAs, there is a problem that the electrical resistance of the current flow path is increased.  
      The present invention was devised in view of these conventional problems. It is therefore an object of the invention to provide a method for fabricating a semiconductor laser device which emits a plurality of laser beams of different wavelengths, and which provides a reduced light-emitting point interspace and improved electrical properties and mechanical precision.  
      Furthermore, it is another object of the invention to provide a fabrication method for efficiently mass-producing a semiconductor laser device which emits a plurality of laser beams of different wavelengths, and which provides a reduced light-emitting point interspace and improved electrical properties and mechanical precision.  
     MEANS TO SOLVE THE PROBLEMS  
      To achieve the aforementioned objects, an aspect of the invention according to claim  1  provides a method for fabricating a semiconductor laser device which emits a plurality of laser beams of different wavelengths. The method is characterized by comprising: a first process for fabricating a first intermediate body on a semiconductor substrate, including a step of forming a first multi-layer stack having a semiconductor for forming a first lasing portion; a second process for fabricating a second intermediate body on a support substrate, including a step of forming a second multi-layer stack of a semiconductor for forming a second lasing portion and a step of forming a groove in the second multi-layer stack; a third process for fabricating a bonded body by securely adhering a face of the first intermediate body on a side of the first multi-layer stack to a face of the second intermediate body on a side of the second multi-layer stack via an electrically conductive adherent layer; and a fourth process for irradiating the second multi-layer stack with light through the support substrate of the bonded body to separate the support substrate and the second multi-layer stack from each other.  
      An aspect of the invention according to claim  2  relates to the method for fabricating the semiconductor laser device according to claim  1 , the method being characterized in that the light passes through the support substrate and is absorbed by the second multi-layer stack in the vicinity of an interface with the support substrate.  
      An aspect of the invention according to claim  3  is to provide a method for fabricating a semiconductor laser device which emits a plurality of laser beams of different wavelengths. The method is characterized by comprising: a first process for fabricating a first intermediate body on a semiconductor substrate, including a step of forming a first multi-layer stack having a semiconductor for forming a first lasing portion; a second process for fabricating a second intermediate body on a support substrate, including a step of forming a layer containing at least a light absorption layer, a step of forming a second multi-layer stack of a semiconductor for forming a second lasing portion on the light absorption layer, and a step of forming a groove in the second multi-layer stack; a third process for fabricating a bonded body by securely adhering a face of the first intermediate body on a side of the first multi-layer stack to a face of the second intermediate body on a side of the second multi-layer stack via an electrically conductive adherent layer; and a fourth process for decomposing the light absorption layer by irradiating the light absorption layer with light through the support substrate of the bonded body to strip off at least the support substrate along the decomposed light absorption layer.  
      An aspect of the invention according to claim  4  relates to the method for fabricating the semiconductor laser device according to claim  3 , the method being characterized in that in the second process, the groove is formed to be deeper than a depth from a surface of the second multi-layer stack to the light absorption layer.  
      An aspect of the invention according to claim  5  relates to the method for fabricating the semiconductor laser device according to claim  3  or  4 , the method being characterized in that the light passes through the support substrate and is absorbed by the light absorption layer.  
      An aspect of the invention according to claim  6  relates to the method for fabricating the semiconductor laser device according to any one of claims  1  to  5 , the method being characterized in that at least one of the first process and the second process includes a process for forming the adherent layer on at least one of the face of the first intermediate body on the side of the first multi-layer stack and the face of the second intermediate body on the side of the second multi-layer stack.  
      An aspect of the invention according to claim  7  relates to the method for fabricating the semiconductor laser device according to any one of claims  1  to  6 , the method being characterized in that the first multi-layer stack has a III-V compound semiconductor containing any one of arsenic (As), phosphorus (P), and antimony (Sb) as a group V element or a II-VI compound semiconductor, and in that the second multi-layer stack has a nitride-based III-V compound semiconductor with the group V element being nitrogen (N)  
      An aspect of the invention according to claim  8  relates to the method for fabricating the semiconductor laser device according to any one of claims  1  to  7 , the method being characterized in that the adherent layer is of a metal. 
    
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS  
       FIG. 1  is a schematic view illustrating the structure of a semiconductor laser device fabricated according to a first embodiment;  
       FIG. 2  is a schematic view illustrating the method for fabricating the semiconductor laser device according to the first embodiment;  
       FIG. 3  is a schematic view illustrating the structure of a semiconductor laser device fabricated according to a second embodiment and a fabrication method therefor;  
       FIG. 4  is a schematic view illustrating the structure of a semiconductor laser device fabricated according to a first implementation example;  
       FIG. 5  is a schematic view illustrating a method for fabricating the semiconductor laser device according to the first implementation example;  
       FIG. 6  is another schematic view illustrating the method for fabricating the semiconductor laser device shown in  FIG. 4 ;  
       FIG. 7  is another schematic view illustrating the method for fabricating the semiconductor laser device shown in  FIG. 4 ;  
       FIG. 8  is a schematic view illustrating a method for fabricating a semiconductor laser device according to a second implementation example;  
       FIG. 9  is another schematic view illustrating the method for fabricating the semiconductor laser device according to the second implementation example; and  
       FIG. 10  is another schematic view illustrating the method for fabricating the semiconductor laser device according to the second implementation example.  
    
    
     BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION  
      Now, as the best modes for carrying out the present invention, first and second embodiments will be described below with reference to the drawings.  
     First Embodiment  
      The first embodiment will be described with reference to  FIG. 1  and  FIG. 2 .  FIG. 1  is a perspective view illustrating the external structure of a semiconductor laser device fabricated by a fabrication method of this embodiment, and  FIG. 2  is a schematic view illustrating the method for fabricating the semiconductor laser device of this embodiment.  
      Referring to  FIG. 1 , a semiconductor laser device LD fabricated according to this embodiment includes a first light-emitting element  1  and a second light-emitting element  2  which emit a plurality of laser beams of different wavelengths, wherein the first and second light-emitting elements  1  and  2  are securely adhered integrally to each other by fusion or the like of an adherent layer CNT formed of a metal.  
      The first light-emitting element  1  includes a semiconductor substrate SUB 1  of a III-V compound semiconductor (e.g., GaAs); a first lasing portion la formed, on the semiconductor substrate SUB 1 , of a first multi-layer stack of a III-V compound semiconductor or a II-VI compound semiconductor; a striped waveguide path  1   b  formed on a face opposite to the semiconductor substrate SUB 1  of the first lasing portion  1   a;  an insulating film  1   c  for covering and insulating a region other than the waveguide path  1   b;  an ohmic electrode layer  1   d  electrically connected to the waveguide path  1   b  and formed on the entire surface of the insulating film  1   c;  and an ohmic electrode layer P 1  formed on the back side of the semiconductor substrate SUB 1 . The first light-emitting element  1  emits a laser beam of a predetermined wavelength from the first lasing portion  1   a.    
      The second light-emitting element  2  includes a second lasing portion  2   a  formed of a second multi-layer stack of a nitride-based III-V compound semiconductor with the group V element being nitrogen (N); a striped waveguide path  2   b  formed on a face of the second lasing portion  2   a  on the adherent layer CNT side; an insulating film  2   c  for covering and insulating at least a region, other than the waveguide path  2   b,  facing the adherent layer CNT; an ohmic electrode layer  2   d  electrically connected to the waveguide path  2   b  and formed on a region of the insulating film  2   c  facing the adherent layer CNT; and an ohmic electrode layer P 2  formed on a surface of the second lasing portion  2   a.  The second light-emitting element  2  emits a laser beam of a predetermined wavelength from the second lasing portion  2   a.    
      Now, as will be described later in relation to a fabrication method, a wafer-shaped intermediate body  100  for forming the first light-emitting element  1  and a wafer-shaped intermediate body  200  for forming the second light-emitting element  2  are prefabricated. Then, the ohmic electrode layer  1   d  formed in the intermediate body  100  and the ohmic electrode layer  2   d  formed in the intermediate body  200  are securely adhered to each other via the adherent layer CNT, thereby fabricating a bonded body having the integrated intermediate bodies  100  and  200 . Thereafter, the bonded body is subjected to predetermined processing for cleavage, thereby making the occupied area of the first light-emitting element  1  larger than the second light-emitting element  2  formed region (in other words, the second light-emitting element  2  is smaller than the first light-emitting element  1 ). Moreover, the adherent layer CNT is formed on the entire surface of the first light-emitting element  1 , thereby being exposed at a region other than the second light-emitting element  2  formed region. Thus, the semiconductor laser device LD is formed in which the exposed adherent layer CNT serves as a common anode.  
      Additionally, the aforementioned first multi-layer stack allows the first lasing portion  1   a  to include a double heterostructure (DH) which has a strained quantum well active layer of a III-V compound semiconductor or a II-VI compound semiconductor, and cladding layers deposited so as to sandwich the active layer. Furthermore, there is provided a laser resonator with cleaved facets that are formed by cleaving the first lasing portion  1   a  at the ends of the waveguide path  1   b  in its longitudinal direction.  
      The aforementioned second multi-layer stack allows the second lasing portion  2   a  to include a double heterostructure (DH) which has a multiple quantum well active layer of a nitride-based III-V compound semiconductor and cladding layers deposited so as to sandwich the active layer. Furthermore, there is provided a laser resonator with cleaved facets that are formed by cleaving the second lasing portion  2   a  at the ends of the waveguide path  2   b  in its longitudinal direction.  
      In the semiconductor laser device LD configured as such, a drive current supplied between an exposed portion Pc of the adherent layer CNT and the ohmic electrode layer P 1  flows into the aforementioned active layer in the first lasing portion  1   a  through the waveguide path  1   b,  thereby producing light. The light induces carrier recombinations in the aforementioned laser resonator for stimulated emission, thereby allowing a laser beam of a predetermined wavelength (e.g., 650 nm) to be emitted out of the cleaved facets formed on the first lasing portion  1   a.    
      Furthermore, a drive current supplied between the exposed portion Pc of the adherent layer CNT and the ohmic electrode layer P 2  flows into the aforementioned active layer in the second lasing portion  2   a  through the waveguide path  2   b,  thereby producing light. The light induces carrier recombinations in the aforementioned laser resonator for stimulated emission, thereby allowing a laser beam of a predetermined wavelength (e.g., 405 nm) to be emitted out of the cleaved facets formed on the second lasing portion  2   a.    
      Now, the method for fabricating the semiconductor laser device LD will be described with reference to  FIG. 2 . FIGS.  2 ( a ) and  2 ( b ) are schematic perspective views illustrating the fabrication processes and structures of the first intermediate body  100  and the second intermediate body  200 , respectively.  FIG. 2 ( c ) to  FIG. 2 ( f ) are schematic perspective views illustrating processes for fabricating the semiconductor laser device LD using the intermediate bodies  100  and  200 . Furthermore, in FIGS.  2 ( a ) to ( f ) , like reference symbols are used to designate the portions that are the same as or corresponding to those of  FIG. 1 .  
      The first intermediate body  100  shown in  FIG. 2 ( a ) is fabricated as follows. That is, on the wafer-shaped semiconductor substrate SUB 1  of a III-V compound semiconductor (e.g., GaAs), a first multi-layer stack X 1   a  of a III-V compound semiconductor or II-VI compound semiconductor is formed which has a double heterostructure. Thereafter, a plurality of striped ridge waveguide paths  1   b  are formed at predetermined intervals, and then regions of the first multi-layer stack X 1   a  other than the waveguide paths  1   b  are covered and insulated with the insulating film  1   c.  Then, the ohmic electrode layer  1   d  for electrically connecting to the waveguide paths  1   b  is formed on the insulating film  1   c,  and an adherent layer CNT 1  of a metal is further formed.  
      The second intermediate body  200  shown in  FIG. 2 ( b ) is fabricated as follows. That is, on a sapphire substrate employed as a support substrate SUB 2 , the second multi-layer stack Y 2   a  of a nitride-based III-V compound semiconductor is formed which has a double heterostructure. Thereafter, a plurality of striped ridge waveguide paths  2   b  are formed at predetermined intervals, and then each predetermined region between the waveguide paths  2   b  of the multi-layer stack Y 2   a  is etched to a predetermined depth, thereby forming multi-layer stacks Y 2   a  having a structure with a plurality of stage portions and grooves R located adjacent to each other. Furthermore, regions of the multi-layer stacks Y 2   a  other than the waveguide paths  2   b  are coated with the insulating film  2   c,  and then the ohmic electrode layer  2   d  for electrically connecting to the waveguide paths  2   b  and the adherent layer CNT 2  are sequentially formed.  
      Additionally, the interval of the ridge waveguide paths  1   b  of the first intermediate body  100  is equal to the interval of the ridge waveguide paths  2   b  of the second intermediate body  200 .  
      Then, as shown in  FIG. 2 ( c ), the waveguide paths  1   b  and  2   b  formed in the first and second intermediate bodies  100  and  200  are opposed to bring the adherent layers CNT 1  and CNT 2  into close contact with each other. Then, the adherent layers CNT 1  and CNT 2  at portions in close contact with each other are fused to each other to form the integrated adherent layer CNT as shown in  FIG. 1 . Thus, the bonded body is fabricated which has the integrated intermediate bodies  100  and  200 .  
      Here, as shown in  FIG. 2 ( b ), when the waveguide paths  2   b  of the multi-layer stacks Y 2   a  are formed of a ridge waveguide path, the adherent layer CNT 2  has bumps and dips on the surface thereof. However, as shown in  FIG. 2 ( c ), since a metal is fused to affix the adherent layers CNT 1  and CNT 2  to each other, the waveguide paths  1   b  and  2   b  can be brought into close proximity to each other to have an optimal spacing therebetween, without being affected by the aforementioned bumps and dips.  
      Then, as shown in  FIG. 2 ( d ), the support substrate SUB 2  is illuminated with a laser beam of a predetermined wavelength (e.g., 360 nm or less) which passes therethrough.  
      This allows the majority of the laser beam not to be absorbed in the support substrate SUB 2  but pass therethrough and absorbed by the multi-layer stacks Y 2   a  in a slight penetration depth. Additionally, because of a significant lattice mismatch between the support substrate SUB 2  and the multi-layer stacks Y 2   a,  there exist a large number of crystal defects in a portion of the multi-layer stacks Y 2   a  in contact with the support substrate SUB 2  (hereinafter referred to as a “junction vicinity portion”). Accordingly, at the junction vicinity portion of the multi-layer stacks Y 2   a,  the majority of the laser beam is converted into heat, causing the junction vicinity portion to be quickly heated to a high temperature and decomposed. Then, the presence of the pre-formed grooves R causes thin portions of the multi-layer stacks Y 2   a  facing the grooves R to be collapsed due to a force exerted by a gas, thereby allowing the plurality of multi-layer stacks Y 2   a  to be formed being separated by the grooves R.  
      Then, the bonded body is heated at a predetermined temperature to reduce the cohesive strength of the junction between each of the separated multi-layer stacks Y 2   a  and the support substrate SUB 2 . Under this condition, the support substrate SUB 2  is stripped off, thereby allowing the surface of each of the multi-layer stacks Y 2   a  and the adherent layer CNT facing the grooves R to be exposed.  
      Then, the exposed surfaces of each of the multi-layer stacks Y 2   a  and the adherent layer CNT are washed, and thereafter, as shown in  FIG. 2 ( e ), the ohmic electrode layer P 1  is formed on the entire back side of the semiconductor substrate SUB 1 , and the ohmic electrode layer P 2  is formed on the surface of each of the multi-layer stacks Y 2   a,  respectively.  
      Then, as shown in  FIG. 2 ( f ), the entire first and second intermediate bodies  100  and  200  are cleaved along a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the waveguide paths  1   b  and  2   b,  and groove R portions are cleaved in a direction parallel to the longitudinal direction of the waveguide paths  1   b  and  2   b,  thereby completing the individual semiconductor laser device LD as shown in  FIG. 1 .  
      As described above, according to the fabrication method of this embodiment and the semiconductor laser device LD fabricated according to this fabrication method, the intermediate bodies  100  and  200  that allow for forming a plurality of first and second light-emitting elements  1  and  2  are bonded to each other through the adherent layer CNT in the form of so-called wafers and then cleaved to complete the individual semiconductor laser device LD. Accordingly, by the wafers being bonded to each other, the waveguide paths  1   b  and  2   b  can be aligned with high precision and the light-emitting point interspace between the first and second light-emitting elements  1  and  2  can be optimally controlled at a time, thus providing an improved mass productivity.  
      Furthermore, since both the ohmic electrode layers  1   d  and  2   d  of the first and second light-emitting elements  1  and  2  bonded to the adherent layer CNT serve as a p-side electrode, the adherent layer CNT serves as a common anode for supplying a forward bias drive current to the first and second lasing portions  1   a  and  2   a  through the ohmic electrode layers  1   d  and  2   d.  Accordingly, the configuration of the drive circuit can be simplified; for example, only one switching element has to be connected between the drive current source and the adherent layer CNT to make it possible to supply a drive current to the first and second lasing portions  1   a  and  2   a  via the switching element.  
      Furthermore, supplying a drive current only between the adherent layer CNT and the ohmic electrode layer P 1  allows only the first light-emitting element  1  to emit light, while supplying a drive current only between the adherent layer CNT and the ohmic electrode layer P 2  allows only the second light-emitting element  2  to emit light. Furthermore, simultaneously supplying a drive current between the adherent layer CNT and the ohmic electrode layer P 1  and between the adherent layer CNT and the ohmic electrode layer P 2  allows the first and second light-emitting elements  1  and  2  to emit light at the same time. Accordingly, it is possible to provide for a large number of various service versions.  
      On the other hand, in the multi-wavelength type semiconductor laser described in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2000-252593, driving one laser element causes the other laser element to be reverse biased. Accordingly, since the reverse breakdown voltage needs to be taken into account, the semiconductor laser cannot be driven with a large current, and the presence of a reverse leakage current causes an increase in power consumption. However, as described above, the semiconductor laser device LD fabricated according to this embodiment allows for supplying a drive current independently between the adherent layer CNT and the ohmic electrode layer P 1  and between the adherent layer CNT and the ohmic electrode layer P 2 , respectively. This allows the first and second light-emitting elements  1  and  2  to emit light independently. Accordingly, the semiconductor laser device LD fabricated according to this embodiment makes it possible to drive each of the first and second light-emitting elements  1  and  2  with a large current, and reduce the power consumption since the problem of reverse leakage current is not present.  
      Furthermore, in the fabrication process, the adherent layers CNT 1  and CNT 2  formed in the first and second intermediate bodies  100  and  200  are bonded to each other, thereby securely adhering the first and second intermediate bodies  100  and  200  integrally to each other via the integrated adherent layer CNT. Accordingly, even when the waveguide paths  1   b  and  2   b  having a striped ridge structure are formed causing bumps and dips to occur on the respective surfaces of the ohmic electrode layers  1   d  and  2   d,  the adherent layers CNT 1  and CNT 2  can be easily bonded to each other with a reduced separation spacing between the waveguide paths  1   b  and  2   b.  Accordingly, it is possible to realize a semiconductor laser device having an extremely small light-emitting point interspace at improved yield rates.  
      Furthermore, in the fabrication process, the grooves R are pre-formed on the second intermediate body  200  side as shown in  FIG. 2 ( b ). Thus, as shown in  FIG. 2 ( c ), affixing the adherent layers CNT 1  and CNT 2  of the first and second intermediate bodies  100  and  200  to each other causes the adherent layer CNT 1  on the first intermediate body  100  side to be exposed to the grooves R. Therefore, for example, without processing the individual semiconductor laser device in any manner after the aforementioned support substrate SUB 2  has been stripped off, the adherent layer CNT 1  can be easily exposed as a common anode only by stripping off the support substrate SUB 2 . It is thus possible to realize a simplified fabrication process.  
      According to the method for fabricating the semiconductor laser device of the aforementioned embodiment, the adherent layer CNT 1  is formed in the first intermediate body  100  while the adherent layer CNT 2  is formed in the second intermediate body  200 . Then, the adherent layers CNT 1  and CNT 2  are adhered to each other, thereby securely adhering the first and second intermediate bodies  100  and  200  to each other. However, the invention is not limited to this fabrication method. An adherent layer may be formed in any one of the first intermediate body  100  and the second intermediate body  200 , and then the first intermediate body  100  and the second intermediate body  200  may be securely adhered to each other via the adherent layer.  
      Furthermore, the description was given to the case where a sapphire substrate is used as the support substrate SUB 2 ; however, an AlN substrate, a SiC substrate, or an AlGaN substrate may also be used.  
     Second Embodiment  
      Now, the second embodiment will be described with reference to  FIG. 3 .  FIG. 3  is a schematic view which illustrates a fabrication method according to this embodiment, using like reference symbols to designate the portions that are the same as or corresponding to those of  FIG. 2 .  
      A semiconductor laser device fabricated according to this embodiment has basically the same structure as that of the semiconductor laser device shown in  FIG. 1 , but is fabricated following a different method as discussed below.  
      That is, the fabrication method proceeds in the following manner. To begin with, the first intermediate body  100  and the second intermediate body  200  shown in FIGS.  3 ( a ) and ( b ) are pre-fabricated. Here, the first intermediate body  100  shown in  FIG. 3 ( a ) is configured in the same manner as the intermediate body  100  shown in  FIG. 2 ( a ).  
      Unlike the intermediate body  200  shown in  FIG. 2 ( b ), the second intermediate body  200  shown in  FIG. 3 ( b ) is provided with a pre-formed light absorption layer STP for absorbing a laser beam which is emitted to illuminate the support substrate SUB 2  in striping it off, as discussed later. The light absorption layer STP is disposed between the support substrate SUB 2  and the multi-layer stack Y 2   a  for forming the second lasing portion  2   a.    
      More specifically, in  FIG. 3 ( b ), an underlying layer  2   ab  formed of, e.g., n-type GaN and the light absorption layer STP formed of, e.g., InGaN are deposited on the support substrate SUB 2 . On the light absorption layer STP, a multi-layer stack Y 2   a  having a double heterostructure of a nitride-based III-V compound semiconductor is formed. A plurality of striped waveguide paths  2   b  are formed in the multi-layer stack Y 2   a  at the same intervals as those of the waveguide paths  1   b  of the first intermediate body  100 . Then, predetermined regions between each of the waveguide paths  2   b  of the multi-layer stack Y 2   a  are etched to a depth as far as reaching at least the underlying layer  2   ab,  thereby forming a plurality of grooves R as well as providing divided multiple multi-layer stacks Y 2   a.  Then, after the insulating film  2   c  is formed on the surface region other than the waveguide paths  2   b,  the ohmic electrode layer  2   d  is formed on the entire surface of the waveguide paths  2   b  and the insulating film  2   c,  thereby electrically connecting between the ohmic electrode  2   d  and the waveguide paths  2   b.  Furthermore, the adherent layer CNT 2  is formed on the ohmic electrode layer  2   d,  thereby fabricating the second intermediate body  200  as shown in  FIG. 3 ( b ).  
      Then, as shown in  FIG. 3 ( c ), the waveguide paths  1   b  and  2   b  formed in the first and second intermediate bodies  100  and  200  are opposed to bring the adherent layers CNT 1  and CNT 2  into close contact with each other. Then, the adherent layers CNT 1  and CNT 2  at portions in close contact with each other are fused into each other to form the integrated adherent layer CNT, thereby fabricating the bonded body into which the integrated intermediate bodies  100  and  200  are securely adhered integrally to each other.  
      Then, as shown in  FIG. 3 ( d ), the back side of the support substrate SUB 2  is illuminated with a laser beam of a predetermined wavelength which passes through the support substrate SUB 2  and the underlying layer  2   ab.  Thus, the laser beam passes through the support substrate SUB 2  and the underlying layer  2   ab  to reach the light absorption layer STP, thereby allowing the light absorption layer STP to be heated and decomposed with the laser beam. This causes the cohesive strength between the underlying layer  2   ab  and the second lasing portion  2   a  to be decreased.  
      Then, the support substrate SUB 2  is stripped off from the multi-layer stacks Y 2   a  being separated by the light absorption layer STP, thereby removing the underlying layer  2   ab,  and the adherent layer CNT 2 , the ohmic electrode layer  2   d,  and the insulating film  2   c,  which are formed in the grooves R, together with the support substrate SUB 2 . Thus, the surface of each of the multi-layer stacks Y 2   a  and the adherent layer CNT facing the grooves R are exposed.  
      Then, as shown in  FIG. 3 ( e ), the ohmic electrode layer P 1  is formed on the entire back side of the semiconductor substrate SUB 1 , and the ohmic electrode layer P 2  is formed on the surface of each of the multi-layer stacks Y 2   a,  respectively. Thereafter, as shown in  FIG. 3 ( f ), the entire first and second intermediate bodies  100  and  200  are cleaved along a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the waveguide paths  1   b  and  2   b,  and groove R portions are cleaved in a direction parallel to the longitudinal direction of the waveguide paths  1   b  and  2   b,  thereby completing the individual semiconductor laser device LD as shown in  FIG. 1 .  
      As described above, according to the fabrication method of this embodiment and the semiconductor laser device LD fabricated according to this fabrication method, the same effects as those of the aforementioned first embodiment can be obtained. Additionally, in the fabrication process, the light absorption layer STP is pre-formed on the second intermediate body  200  side and the back side of the support substrate SUB 2  is illuminated with a laser beam of a predetermined wavelength to decompose the light absorption layer STP. Accordingly, the underlying layer  2   ab  can be removed in conjunction with the support substrate SUB 2 .  
      This improves the confinement of light in the active layer and the guide layer of the multi-layer stacks Y 2   a,  and the quality of the radiated beam of laser light.  
      Furthermore, since the laser beam used to illuminate the back side of the support substrate SUB 2  passes through the underlying layer  2   ab,  the support substrate SUB 2  can be formed of the same material as that of the underlying layer  2   ab,  e.g., GaN. Accordingly, it is possible to form the multi-layer stacks Y 2   a  of a further improved quality.  
      Furthermore, in pre-forming the grooves R in the second intermediate body  200  shown in  FIG. 3 ( b ), the depth of the grooves R can be adjusted so that the thickness from the support substrate SUB 2  to the bottom of the grooves R is less than the thickness from the support substrate SUB 2  to the light absorption layer STP. In this case, the light absorption layer STP is pre-removed from the underlying layer  2   ab  portion reduced in thickness due to the grooves R. Accordingly, in the processes for irradiating the back side of the support substrate SUB 2  with a laser beam of a predetermined wavelength and for stripping off the support substrate SUB 2 , the adherent layer CNT 1  facing the grooves R can be exposed without collapsing the underlying layer  2   ab  in the grooves R. It is thus possible to obtain effects such as improved yields.  
      According to the method for fabricating a semiconductor laser device of the second embodiment described above, the underlying layer  2   ab  is formed between the support substrate SUB 2  and the light absorption layer STP. However, the light absorption layer STP may be directly formed on the support substrate SUB 2  without forming the underlying layer  2   ab.  Even such a fabrication method may also make it possible to fabricate a semiconductor laser device in the same structure as that of the semiconductor laser device shown in  FIG. 1 .  
      However, the underlying layer  2   ab  formed between the support substrate SUB 2  and the light absorption layer STP allows for forming high-quality multi-layer stacks Y 2   a  with less crystal defects, and thus it is desirable to form the underlying layer  2   ab  between the support substrate SUB 2  and the light absorption layer STP.  
      Furthermore, according to the method for fabricating a semiconductor laser device of the second embodiment described above, the adherent layer CNT 1  is formed in the first intermediate body  100  while the adherent layer CNT 2  is formed in the second intermediate body  200 . Then, the adherent layers CNT 1  and CNT 2  are adhered to each other, thereby fabricating the bonded body having the first and second intermediate bodies  100  and  200  securely adhered to each other. However, the invention is not limited to this fabrication method. An adherent layer may be formed in any one of the first intermediate body  100  and the second intermediate body  200 , and then the first intermediate body  100  and the second intermediate body  200  may be securely adhered to each other via the adherent layer.  
      [First Implementation Example] 
      Now, a more specific implementation example according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to  FIG. 4  to  FIG. 7 .  FIG. 4  is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the structure of a semiconductor laser device fabricated according to this implementation example, while FIGS.  5  to  7  are schematic views illustrating the method for fabricating the semiconductor laser device according to this implementation example. Furthermore, in FIGS.  4  to  7 , like reference symbols are used to designate the portions that are the same as or corresponding to those of  FIG. 1  and  FIG. 2 .  
      In  FIG. 4 , the semiconductor laser device LD fabricated according to this implementation example includes a first light-emitting element  1  formed on the semiconductor substrate SUB 1  and having the first lasing portion  1   a,  and a second light-emitting element  2  having the second lasing portion  2   a.  The first and second light-emitting elements  1 ,  2  are securely adhered integrally to each other by an adherent layer CNT of a fusion metal (e.g., Sn).  
      The first lasing portion  1   a  has an n-type buffer layer  1   aa,  an n-type cladding layer  1   ab,  an n-type guide layer  1   ac,  an active layer  1   ad  having a strained quantum well structure, a p-type guide layer  1   ae,  a p-type cladding layer  1   af,  and a p-type current conducting layer  1   ag  and a p-type contact layer  1   ah  which are formed on the top portion of the ridge waveguide paths  1   b  formed in the p-type cladding layer  1   af.  These layers are deposited on the semiconductor substrate SUB 1  of a III-V compound semiconductor (in this implementation example, GaAs).  
      Furthermore, the insulating film  1   c  is formed on a region of the p-type cladding layer  1   af  other than the p-type contact layer  1   ah,  and the ohmic electrode layer  1   d  electrically connecting to the p-type contact layer  1   ah  is formed on the insulating film  1   c,  with the ohmic electrode layer P 1  further formed on the back side of the semiconductor substrate SUB 1 .  
      The second lasing portion  2   a  has a multi-layer stack, which includes an n-type underlying layer  2   ab,  an n-type cladding layer  2   ac,  an n-type guide layer  2   ad,  an active layer  2   ae  having a multiple quantum well structure, an electron blocking layer  2   af,  a p-type guide layer  2   ag,  a p-type cladding layer  2   ah,  and a p-type contact layer  2   ai  which is formed on the top portion of the waveguide paths  2   b  formed in the p-type cladding layer  2   ah.    
      Furthermore, the insulating film  2   c  is formed on a region of the p-type cladding layer  2   ah  other than the p-type contact layer  2   ai,  and the ohmic electrode layer  2   d  for electrically connecting to the p-type contact layer  2   ai  is formed on the insulating film  1   c,  with the ohmic electrode layer P 2  further formed on the surface of the n-type underlying layer  2   ab.    
      Furthermore, the ohmic electrode layer  1   d  on the first lasing portion  1   a  side and the ohmic electrode  2   d  on the second lasing portion  2   a  side are securely adhered to each other with an adherent layer CNT of a fusion metal, thereby allowing for integrating the first and second light-emitting elements  1  and  2 . Furthermore, the occupied area of the first light-emitting element  1  is larger than the second light-emitting element  2  formed region. Moreover, the adherent layer CNT is formed on the entire surface of the first light-emitting element  1 , thereby being exposed at a region other than the second light-emitting element  2  formed region. Thus, the semiconductor laser device LD is formed in which the exposed adherent layer CNT serves as a common anode.  
      Now, with reference to FIGS.  5  to  7 , the method for fabricating the semiconductor laser device LD will be described.  FIG. 5 ( a ) is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the fabrication process of the first intermediate body  100 . FIGS.  5 ( b ) to ( d ) are schematic cross-sectional views illustrating the fabrication process of the second intermediate body  200 . FIGS.  6 ( a ) to ( c ) and FIGS.  7 ( a ) and ( b ) are cross-sectional and perspective views illustrating the processes for fabricating the semiconductor laser device LD from the first and second intermediate bodies  100  and  200 .  
      The fabrication process of the first intermediate body  100  will be described with reference to  FIG. 5 ( a ). By MOCVD or the like, the buffer layer  1   aa  of n-type GaAs, which has been turned into an n-type by doping silicon (Si), is deposited in a thickness of about 0.5 μm on the semiconductor substrate SUB 1  of a wafer-shaped GaAs (001) substrate. Then, the n-type cladding layer  1   ab  of n-type Al 0.35 Ga 0.15 In 0.5 P is deposited in a thickness of about 1.2 μm. Then, the guide layer  1   ac  of AlGaInP is deposited in a thickness of about 0.05 μm. Then, the active layer  1   ad  of GaInP and AlGaInP having a strained quantum well structure is deposited in a thickness of about a few tens of nm. Then, the guide layer  1   ae  of AlGaInP is deposited in a thickness of about 0.05 μm. Then, the p-type cladding layer  1   af  of Al 0.35 Ga 0.15 In 0.5 P, which has been turned into a p-type by doping zinc (Zn), is deposited in a thickness of about 1.2 μm. Then, the p-type current conducting layer  1   ag  of p-type Ga 0.51 In 0.49 P is deposited in a thickness of about 0.05 μm. Then, the p-type contact layer  1   ah  of p-type GaAs is deposited in a thickness of about 0.2 μm. The multi-layer stack X 1   a  is thus formed which is made from an AlGaInP-based semiconductor.  
      Then, with a predetermined region being masked to form the waveguide paths  1   b,  wet etching is carried out from the p-type contact layer  1   ah  side until the p-type cladding layer  1   af  has a thickness of about 0.2 μm. Thereby, a plurality of waveguide paths  1   b  having a striped ridge structure along &lt;110&gt; orientation are formed in the multi-layer stack X 1   a  of an AlGaInP-based semiconductor.  
      Then, the insulating film  1   c  of SiO 2  is formed on a region of the p-type cladding layer  1   af  other than the p-type contact layer  1   ah  formed on each of the waveguide paths  1   b.  Thereafter, an ohmic electrode layer  1   c  of chromium (Cr) or gold (Au) or a stack thereof is formed in a thickness of about 200 nm on the entire surface of the p-type contact layer  1   ah  and the insulating film  1   c,  thereby allowing the p-type contact layer  1   ah  and the ohmic electrode layer  1   c  to be electrically connected to each other. Then, the adherent layer CNT 1  of tin (Sn) serving as a fusion metal is formed on the entire surface of the ohmic electrode layer  1   c,  thereby fabricating the first intermediate body  100 .  
      Then, the fabrication process of the second intermediate body  200  will be described with reference to FIGS.  5 ( b ) to ( d ). The MOCVD method or the like is used to deposit a plurality of semiconductor thin films, which are made from GaN-based semiconductors with different compositions and thicknesses, on the support substrate SUB 2  of a sapphire substrate, thereby forming a multi-layer stack Y 2   a  of the GaN-based semiconductor with a multiple quantum well active layer and cladding layers.  
      More specifically, an n-type buffer layer  2   aa  of GaN or AlN is deposited in a thickness of about a few tens of nm on the sapphire (0001) substrate SUB 2 . Then, the n-type underlying layer  2   ab  of n-type GaN, which has been turned into an n-type by doping silicon (Si), is deposited in a thickness of about 5 to 15 μm. Then, the n-type cladding layer  2   ac  of n-type Al 0.08 Ga 0.92 N is deposited in a thickness of about 0.8 μm. Then, then-type guide layer  2   ad  of n-type GaN is deposited in a thickness of about 0.2 μm. Then, the active layer  2   ae  is deposited in a thickness of about a few tens of nm, which has a multiple quantum well structure with a well layer and a barrier layer of In x Ga 1-x N (where, 0≦x) having different compositions, for example, In 0.08 Ga 0.92 N and In 0.01 Ga 0.99 N. Then, the electron blocking layer  2   af  of Al 0.2 Ga 0.8 N is deposited in a thickness of about 0.02 μm. Then, the p-type guide layer  2   ag  of p-type GaN, which has been turned into a p-type by doping magnesium (Mg), is deposited in a thickness of about 0.2 μm. Then, the p-type cladding layer  2   ah  of p-type Al 0.08 Ga 0.92 N is deposited in a thickness of about 0.4 μm. Then, the p-type contact layer  2   ai  of p-type GaN is formed in a thickness of about 0.1 μm, thereby forming a multi-layer stack Y 2   a  of a GaN-based semiconductor.  
      Then, by reactive ion etching (RIE), the multi-layer stack Y 2   a  is etched, excluding the region for forming a striped waveguide path  2   b,  to such a depth that allows the p-type cladding layer  2   ah  to have a thickness of about 0.05 μm, thereby forming a plurality of waveguide paths  2   b  having a striped ridge structure along &lt;11-20&gt; orientation.  
      Then, predetermined regions between each of the waveguide paths  2   b  of the multi-layer stacks Y 2   a  are etched to a depth of about 5 μm, thereby forming grooves R that reach the n-type underlying layer  2   ab  as shown in  FIG. 5 ( c ). Thereafter, the insulating film  2   c  of SiO 2  is formed on a region other than the p-type contact layer  2   ai  to provide a covering of insulation.  
      Then, as shown in  FIG. 5 ( d ), the ohmic electrode layer  2   d  of palladium (Pd) or gold (Au) or a stack thereof is formed in a thickness of about 200 nm on the entire surface of the p-type contact layer  2   ai  and the insulating film  2   c,  thereby allowing the ohmic electrode layer  2   d  to be electrically connected to the p-type contact layer  2   ai.  Then, the adherent layer CNT 2  of gold (Au) serving as a fusion metal is formed on the entire surface of the ohmic electrode layer  2   d,  thereby fabricating the second intermediate body  200 .  
      Then, following the processes shown in  FIG. 6  and  FIG. 7 , the semiconductor laser device LD is fabricated from pre-fabricated intermediate bodies  100  and  200 .  
      First, as shown in  FIG. 6 ( a ), the waveguide paths  1   b  and  2   b  formed in the first and second intermediate bodies  100  and  200  are opposed to bring the adherent layers CNT 1  and CNT 2  into close contact with each other. Here, the adherent layers CNT 1  and CNT 2  are brought into close contact with each other in a manner such that the cleavage plane (110) of the multi-layer stack X 1   a  of the AlGaInP-based semiconductor and the cleavage plane (1-100) of the multi-layer stacks Y 2   a  of the GaN-based semiconductor match with each other, and the waveguide paths  1   b  of the multi-layer stack X 1   a  of the AlGaInP-based semiconductor and the waveguide paths  1   b  of the multi-layer stacks Y 2   a  of the GaN-based semiconductor are brought into close proximity to each other.  
      Then, in a forming gas atmosphere at about 300 degrees centigrade, the entire first and second intermediate bodies  100  and  200  are heated, thereby fusing the close contact portions of the adherent layers CNT 1  and CNT 2  into an integrated adherent layer CNT.  
      Then, as shown in  FIG. 6 ( b ), the back side of the support substrate SUB 2  is illuminated with a laser beam of a wavelength of 360 nm or less. More preferably, the fourth harmonic of YAG laser (a wavelength of 266 nm) is condensed through a predetermined condenser lens into a high-energy light beam, and the resulting beam is allowed to illuminate the back side of the support substrate SUB 2 , as shown by a number of arrows for convenience purposes.  
      The majority of the laser beam of a wavelength of 266 nm is not absorbed in the support substrate (sapphire substrate) SUB 2  but passes therethrough and is absorbed by the multi-layer stacks Y 2   a  in a slight penetration depth of GaN. Additionally, because of a significant lattice mismatch between the support substrate SUB 2  and the GaN, there exist a large number of crystal defects at the GaN junction vicinity portion. Accordingly, at the GaN junction vicinity portion, the majority of the laser beam absorbed is converted into heat, thereby causing the GaN junction vicinity portion to be quickly heated to a high temperature and thus decomposed into metal gallium and nitrogen gases.  
      Then, the presence of the pre-formed grooves R causes thin portions of the multi-layer stack Y 2   a  of the GaN-based semiconductor in the grooves R to be collapsed due to a force exerted by the aforementioned gas, thereby allowing a plurality of multi-layer stacks Y 2   a  to be formed being separated by the grooves R.  
      Then, as shown in  FIG. 6 ( c ), the entire first and second intermediate bodies  100  and  200  are heated to about 40 degrees centigrade higher than the melting point of gallium to strip the support substrate SUB 2  off from each of the multi-layer stacks Y 2   a.    
      That is, at the time of irradiating the back side of the support substrate SUB 2  with the aforementioned high-energy light, the multi-layer stacks Y 2   a  and the support substrate SUB 2  are weakly coupled to each other by the metal gallium. Accordingly, the overall heating to a temperature of about 40 degrees centigrade higher than the melting point of gallium further weakens the coupling condition, thereby stripping off the support substrate SUB 2  from each of the multi-layer stacks Y 2   a.    
      As shown in  FIG. 6 ( c ), stripping off the support substrate SUB 2  in this manner causes the surface of each of the multi-layer stacks Y 2   a  and the adherent layer CNT facing the grooves R to be exposed.  
      Then, the aforementioned collapsed portions are removed by ultrasonic cleaning in pure water, and thereafter the multi-layer stacks Y 2   a  are soaked for about three minutes in a dilute hydrochloric acid to remove the metal gallium which remains on each of the exposed surfaces.  
      Then, as shown in  FIG. 7 ( a ), by vapor deposition or the like, the ohmic electrode layer P 2  of titanium (Ti) or Au or a stack thereof is formed on the surface of each of the multi-layer stacks Y 2   a  (the surface of the n-type GaN), and the ohmic electrode layer P 1  of an AuGe alloy (an alloy of gold and germanium) is formed on the back side of the n-type GaAs substrate SUB 1 , respectively,  
      Then, as shown in  FIG. 7 ( b ), the integrated intermediate bodies  100  and  200  shown in  FIG. 7 ( a ) are cleaved along the (1-100) plane or the cleavage plane of the multi-layer stacks Y 2   a  of the GaN-based semiconductor, thereby forming a laser resonator. Furthermore, the secondary cleavage is carried out at groove R portions in an orientation perpendicular to the laser resonator plane. In this manner, as shown in  FIG. 4 , the individual semiconductor laser devices LD are completed, which each have the first and second light-emitting elements  1   a  and  2   a  for emitting laser beams of different wavelengths. In the individual semiconductor laser device LD, the occupied area of the first light-emitting element  1  is greater than the second light-emitting element  2  formed region, and the adherent layer CNT is exposed and extends from the first and second light-emitting elements  1  and  2  to serve as a common anode.  
      According to the semiconductor laser device LD fabricated in accordance with this implementation example, a drive current supplied between the exposed portion of the adherent layer CNT serving as the aforementioned common anode and the ohmic electrode layer P 1  causes a laser beam of a wavelength of 650 nm to be emitted through the cleaved facet of the laser resonator formed at the first lasing portion  1   a.  On the other hand, a drive current supplied between the exposed portion of the adherent layer CNT and the ohmic electrode layer P 2  causes a laser beam of a wavelength of 405 nm to be emitted through the cleaved facet of the second lasing portion  2   a  formed at the laser resonator.  
      Then, the first and second lasing portions  1   a  and  2   a  are fused to each other with the adherent layers CNT 1  and CNT 2  of a fusion metal. This makes it possible to bring the waveguide paths  1   b  and  2   b  into extremely close proximity to each other and thus provide a semiconductor laser device LD having an extremely small light-emitting point interspace.  
      Furthermore, as shown in  FIG. 5 ( d ), in the fabrication process of the second intermediate body  200 , the stage-shaped multi-layer stacks Y 2   a  to serve as the second lasing portion  2   a  when completed and the grooves R adjacent to the stage-shaped multi-layer stacks Y 2   a  are pre-formed. Accordingly, the portion of the adherent layer CNT facing the grooves R can be exposed only by fusing the first and second intermediate bodies  100  and  200  into each other with the adherent layers CNT 1  and CNT 2  and then, as shown in FIGS.  6 ( b ) and (c), allowing the support substrate SUB 2  to be illuminated with a laser beam of a predetermined wavelength to be thereby stripped off.  
      On the other hand, suppose that with no grooves R formed, the first and second intermediate bodies  100  and  200  are fused into each other with the adherent layers CNT 1  and CNT 2 , and thereafter the support substrate SUB 2  is illuminated with a laser beam of a predetermined wavelength and stripped off. In this case, to utilize the fused adherent layer CNT as an electrode, for example, an extremely difficult processing step is required in which the multi-layer stack Y 2   a  side is etched to partially expose the adherent layer CNT. In contrast to this, the fabrication method of this implementation example makes it possible to partially expose the adherent layer CNT with extreme ease, and thus realize improved yields and mass productivity.  
      Furthermore, as schematically shown in  FIG. 6 ( b ), a reduction in thickness of portions of the multi-layer stack Y 2   a  which are collapsed when illuminated with a laser beam of a predetermined wavelength from the back side of the support substrate SUB 2  side makes it possible to reduce mechanical damage to each multi-layer stack Y 2   a  that is divided into a plurality of multi-layer stacks Y 2   a.    
      As such, a number of effects can be obtained by pre-forming the grooves R in the second intermediate body  200 .  
      In this implementation example, the waveguide paths  1   b  and  2   b  are designed as a ridge waveguide path; however, the invention is not limited thereto but may also be applicable to other structures.  
      Furthermore, although the explanation has been given to the case where a sapphire substrate is used as the support substrate SUB 2 , it is also acceptable to use an AlN substrate, a SiC substrate, or an AlGaN substrate.  
      Furthermore, the insulating films  1   c  and  2   c  may also be formed of an insulating material such as SiO 2 , ZrO 2 , or AlN as appropriate.  
      Furthermore, the fusion metal CNT 1  and CNT 2  may also be formed of an appropriate combination of Au, In, and Pd.  
      [Second Implementation Example] 
      Now, a more specific implementation example according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to  FIG. 8  to  FIG. 10 .  FIG. 8 ( a ) is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the fabrication process of the first intermediate body  100 . FIGS.  8 ( b ) to ( d ) are schematic cross-sectional views illustrating the fabrication process of the second intermediate body  200 . FIGS.  9 ( a ) to ( c ) and FIGS.  10 ( a ) and ( b ) are cross-sectional and perspective views illustrating the processes for fabricating the semiconductor laser device LD from the first and second intermediate bodies  100  and  200 . Furthermore, in FIGS.  8  to  10 , like reference symbols are used to designate the portions that are the same as or corresponding to those of  FIG. 4  and  FIG. 5  to  FIG. 7 .  
      A semiconductor laser device fabricated according to this implementation example has basically the same structure as that of the semiconductor laser device fabricated according to the implementation example shown in  FIG. 5  to  FIG. 7 , but is fabricated following a different method as discussed below.  
      That is, the method for fabricating the semiconductor laser device LD according to this implementation example proceeds in the following manner. To begin with, the first intermediate body  100  shown in  FIG. 8 ( a ) and the second intermediate body  200  shown in  FIG. 8 ( d ) are pre-fabricated. Here, the first intermediate body  100  shown in  FIG. 8 ( a ) is configured in the same manner as the intermediate body  100  shown in  FIG. 5 ( a ).  
      On the other hand, the fabrication process of the second intermediate body  200  is followed as described below. The MOCVD method or the like is used to deposit, on the support substrate SUB 2  of the GaN substrate, the n-type buffer layer  2   aa  of n-type GaN or AlN, the n-type underlying layer  2   ab  of n-type GaN, and the light absorption layer STP of InGaN. A plurality of semiconductor thin films, which are made from GaN-based semiconductors with different compositions and thicknesses, are deposited on the light absorption layer STP. A multi-layer stack Y 2   a  of the GaN-based semiconductor is thus formed, which has the aforementioned multiple quantum well active layer and cladding layers.  
      More specifically, the n-type buffer layer  2   aa  of GaN or AlN is deposited in a thickness of about a few tens of nm on the GaN(0001) substrate SUB 2 . Then, the n-type underlying layer  2   ab  of n-type GaN, which has been turned into an n-type by doping silicon (Si), is deposited in a thickness of about 5 to 15 μm. Then, the light absorption layer STP of In 0.5 Ga 0.5 N, doped with carbon (C), is deposited as a non-radiative recombination center. Then, the n-type cladding layer  2   ac  of n-type Al 0.08 Ga 0.92 N is deposited in a thickness of about 0.8 μm. Then, the n-type guide layer  2   ad  of n-type GaN is deposited in a thickness of about 0.2 μm. Then, the active layer  2   ae  is deposited in a thickness of about a few tens of nm, which has a multiple quantum well structure with a well layer and a barrier layer of In x Ga 1-x N (where, 0≦x) having different compositions, e.g., In 0.08 Ga 0.92 N and In 0.01 Ga 0.99 N. Then, the electron blocking layer  2   af  of Al 0.2 Ga 0.8 N is deposited in a thickness of about 0.02 μm. Then, the p-type guide layer  2   ag  of p-type GaN, which has been turned into a p-type by doping magnesium (Mg), is deposited in a thickness of about 0.2 μm. Then, the p-type cladding layer  2   ah  of p-type Al 0.08 Ga 0.92 N is deposited in a thickness of about 0.4 μm. Then, the p-type contact layer  2   ai  of p-type GaN is formed in a thickness of about 0.1 μm, thereby forming a multi-layer stack Y 2   a  of a GaN-based semiconductor.  
      Then, by reactive ion etching (RIE), the multi-layer stack Y 2   a  is etched, excluding the region for forming the striped waveguide path  2   b,  to such a depth that allows the p-type cladding layer  2   ah  to have a thickness of about 0.05 μm, thereby forming a plurality of waveguide paths  2   b  having a striped ridge structure along &lt;1-100&gt; orientation.  
      Then, predetermined regions between each of the waveguide paths  2   b  of the multi-layer stacks Y 2   a  are etched, thereby removing the light absorption layer STP to form grooves R that reach the n-type underlying layer  2   ab  as shown in  FIG. 8 ( c ). Then, the insulating film  2   c  of SiO 2  is formed on a region other than the p-type contact layer  2   ai  to provide a covering of insulation.  
      Then, as shown in  FIG. 8 ( d ), the ohmic electrode layer  2   d  of palladium (Pd) orgold (Au) ora stack thereof is formed in a thickness of about 200 nm on the entire surface of the p-type contact layer  2   ai  and the insulating film  2   c,  thereby allowing the p-type contact layer  1   ah  to be electrically connected to the ohmic electrode layer  1   c.  Then, the adherent layer CNT 2  of gold (Au) serving as a fusion metal is formed on the entire surface of the ohmic electrode layer  2   d,  thereby fabricating the second intermediate body  200 .  
      Then, following the processes shown in  FIG. 9  and  FIG. 10 , the semiconductor laser device LD is fabricated from pre-fabricated intermediate bodies  100  and  200 .  
      First, as shown in  FIG. 9 ( a ), the waveguide paths  1   b  and  2   b  formed in the first and second intermediate bodies  100  and  200  are opposed to bring the adherent layers CNT 1  and CNT 2  into close contact with each other. Here, the adherent layers CNT 1  and CNT 2  are brought into close contact with each other in a manner such that the cleavage plane (110) of the multi-layer stack X 1   a  of the AlGaInP-based semiconductor and the cleavage plane (1-100) of the multi-layer stacks Y 2   a  of the GaN-based semiconductor match with each other, and the waveguide paths  1   b  of the multi-layer stack X 1   a  and the waveguide paths  2   b  of the multi-layer stacks Y 2   a  are brought into close proximity to each other.  
      Then, in a forming gas atmosphere at about 300 degrees centigrade, the entire first and second intermediate bodies  100  and  200  are heated, thereby fusing the close contact portions of the adherent layers CNT 1  and CNT 2  into an integrated adherent layer CNT.  
      Then, as shown in  FIG. 9 ( b ), the second harmonic of YAG laser (a wavelength of 532 nm) is condensed through a predetermined condenser lens into a high-energy light beam, and the resulting beam is allowed to illuminate the back side of the support substrate SUB 2 , as shown by a number of arrows for convenience purposes.  
      The laser beam of a wavelength of 532 nm passes through the support substrate SUB 2 , the buffer layer  2   aa,  and the n-type underlying layer  2   ab  to reach the light absorption layer STP, causing the light absorption layer STP to be heated and decomposed with the laser beam and thereby reducing the cohesive strength between the n-type underlying layer  2   ab  and each of the multi-layer stacks Y 2   a.    
      Then, as shown in  FIG. 9 ( c ), the support substrate SUB 2  is stripped off being separated by the light absorption layer STP, thereby removing the buffer layer  2   aa  and the underlying layer  2   ab,  and the adherent layer CNT 2 , the ohmic electrode layer  2   d,  and the insulating film  2   c,  which are formed in the grooves R, together with the support substrate SUB 2 . Thus, the surface of each of the multi-layer stacks Y 2   a  and the adherent layer CNT facing the grooves R are exposed.  
      Then, as shown in  FIG. 10 ( a),  by vapor deposition or the like, the ohmic electrode layer P 2  of titanium (Ti) or Au or a stack thereof is formed on the surface of each of the multi-layer stacks Y 2   a  (the surface of the n-type GaN), and the ohmic electrode layer P 1  of an AuGe alloy (an alloy of gold and germanium) is formed on the back side of the n-type GaAs substrate SUB 1 , respectively.  
      Then, as shown in  FIG. 10 ( b ), the integrated intermediate bodies  100  and  200  shown in  FIG. 10 ( a ) are cleaved along the (1-100) plane or the cleavage plane of the multi-layer stacks Y 2   a  of the GaN-based semiconductor, thereby forming a laser resonator. Furthermore, the secondary cleavage is carried out at groove R portions in an orientation perpendicular to the laser resonator plane, thereby completing the individual semiconductor laser device LD which has basically the same structure as shown in  FIG. 4 .  
      As described above, according to the fabrication method of this implementation example and the semiconductor laser device LD fabricated according to this fabrication method, the same effects as those of the aforementioned first embodiment can be obtained. Additionally, in the fabrication process, the light absorption layer STP is pre-formed on the second intermediate body  200  side, and the back side of the support substrate SUB 2  is illuminated with a laser beam of a predetermined wavelength to decompose the light absorption layer STP. Accordingly, the underlying layer  2   ab  can be removed in conjunction with the support substrate SUB 2 .  
      This improves the confinement of light in the active layer and the guide layer of the multi-layer stacks Y 2   a,  and the quality of the radiated beam of laser light.  
      Furthermore, since the laser beam used to illuminate the back side of the support substrate SUB 2  passes through the underlying layer  2   ab,  the support substrate SUB 2  can be formed of the same material as that of the underlying layer  2   ab,  for example, GaN. Accordingly, it is possible to form the multi-layer stacks Y 2   a  of a further improved quality.  
      Furthermore, in pre-forming the grooves R in the second intermediate body  200  shown in  FIG. 8 ( b ), the depth of the grooves R can be adjusted so that the thickness from the support substrate SUB 2  to the bottom of the grooves R is less than the thickness from the support substrate SUB 2  to the light absorption layer STP. In this case, the light absorption layer STP is pre-removed from the underlying layer  2   ab  portion reduced in thickness due to the grooves R. Accordingly, in the processes for irradiating the back side of the support substrate SUB 2  with a laser beam of a predetermined wavelength and for stripping off the support substrate SUB 2 , the adherent layer CNT 1  facing the grooves R can be exposed without collapsing the underlying layer  2   ab  in the grooves R. It is thus possible to obtain effects such as improved yields.  
      In this implementation example, the waveguide paths  1   b  and  2   b  are designed as a ridge waveguide path; however, the invention is not limited thereto but may also be applicable to other structures.  
      Furthermore, although the description has been given to the case where a GaN substrate is used as the support substrate SUB 2 , it is also acceptable to use a sapphire substrate, an AlN substrate, a SiC substrate, or an AlGaN substrate.  
      Furthermore, the insulating film  1   c  and  2   c  may also be formed of an insulating material such as SiO 2 , ZrO 2 , or AlN as appropriate.  
      Furthermore, the fusion metals CNT 1  and CNT 2  may also be formed of an appropriate combination of Au, In, and Pd.