Integrating Mid-Wave and Long-Wave Infrared Laser Sources into AIM Photonics

During this project, a suitable waveguide platform that covers the mid-wave infrared (“MWIR”) and long-wave infrared (“LWIR”) spectral regions will be identified. A heterogeneous integration approach utilizing wafer bonding will be developed to mate the light-generating elements to the proposed passive waveguide platform. Various photonic integrated circuits will also be optimized to increase the performance of the integrated light sources. The goal of the project is to address an emerging market for photonic integrated circuits that incorporate active MWIR and LWIR components. Compact and low-cost systems operating in the MWIR and LWIR spectral ranges are already of significant interest to the research community because of strong absorption features that serve as “fingerprints” and allow numerous trace gas species to be identified and quantified. Currently available light sources with wide spectral tuning ranges are assembled in bulky packages that require the alignment of various bulk optical components. The project will enable AIM Photonics to use standardized production protocols to provide MWIR and LWIR laser sources. This will result in a cost effective and high yield process for which technical risks are minimized.