A density matrix model of transport and radiation in quantum cascade lasers

Abstract

A transport model for quantum cascade lasers based on density matrix formalism that incorporates the laser optical field is confronted with experiment. For a typical mid-infrared laser, very good agreement is found for both the current–voltage and current–optical power characteristics. Forcing thermal distribution with a unique temperature in all subbands was found to lead to an overestimate of electron heating in the injector. The model can then be used further to optimize and design new structures.