Two-dimensional hexagonal-shaped microcavities formed in a two-dimensional photonic crystal on an InP membrane

Abstract

We present simulation and experimental results on hexagonal-shaped microcavities formed in two-dimensional (2D) photonic crystals (PC’s). The PC structures, realized with InP-based materials, are studied in two configurations : Air-suspended membranes (A type) and membranes supported by silica (S type). The optical properties of these microcavities are analyzed through photoluminescence experiments. Plane-wave expansion method calculations provide simulation results that are consistent with experimental data. The influence on spectral properties of various parameters, such as cavity size or air filling factor (f), is thoroughly analyzed, and their effect on resonator loss mechanisms is extracted, to give guidance for further PC laser improvement, e.g., threshold reduction.