title: Broadband 2.4 μm superluminescent GaInAsSb/AlGaAsSb quantum well diodes for optical sensing of biomolecules.
abstract: High power, high radiance, broadband light sources emitting in the 2.0-2.5 μm wavelength range are important for optical sensing of biomolecules such as glucose in aqueous solutions. Here we demonstrate and analyze superluminescent diodes with output centered at 2.4 μm (range ~2.2-2.5 μm) from GaInAsSb/AlGaAsSb quantum wells in a separate confinement structure. Pulsed wave output of 1 mW (38 kW/cm2/sr) is achieved at room temperature for 40μm × 2mm devices. Superluminescence is evidenced in superlinear increase in emission, spectral narrowing, and angular narrowing of light output with increasing current injection. Optical output is analyzed and modeled with rate equations. Potential routes for future improvements are explored, such as additional Auger suppression and photonic mode engineering.
authors.affiliation: Optical Science and Technology Center, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242. ; Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242.
authors.forename: M B
authors.initials: MB
authors.lastname: Wootten
authors.affiliation: Optical Science and Technology Center, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242. ; Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242.
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Tan
authors.affiliation: Optical Science and Technology Center, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242. ; Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242.
authors.forename: Y J
authors.initials: YJ
authors.lastname: Chien
authors.affiliation: Optical Science and Technology Center, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242. ; Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242. ; Dept. of Chemistry, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242.
authors.forename: J T
authors.initials: JT
authors.lastname: Olesberg
authors.affiliation: Optical Science and Technology Center, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242. ; Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242.
authors.forename: J P
authors.initials: JP
authors.lastname: Prineas
keywords: GaInAsSb; GaSb; combination region; gallium antimonide; glucose sensing; high power; infrared; light emitting diode; optical chemical sensing; superluminescence