Monolithic frequency comb platform based on interband cascade lasers and detectors

Abstract

New insights into the laser dynamics of interband cascade lasers reveal the possibility to generate frequency-modulated combs by utilizing their inherent gain nonlinearity. The resulting comb state is characterized by chirped instantaneous frequency, which appears to be universal to frequency combs based on gain-induced four-wave mixing. The fast dynamics in the injectors further allow the realization of exceptionally sensitive and high-speed photodetectors, operating at room temperature, using the very same epilayer structure. With the capability of integrating frequency combs and ultra-fast detectors on a single chip consuming less than a watt of electric power, interband cascade laser technology provides a complete and unmatched platform for future monolithic and battery-driven dual-comb spectrometers.