Narrow linewidth quantum cascade lasers as ultra-sensitive probes of molecules

Saverio Bartalini; Simone Borri; Pablo Cancio Pastor; Iacopo Galli; Giovanni Giusfredi; Davide Mazzotti; Paolo De Natale

doi:10.1117/12.871401

24 January 2011 Narrow linewidth quantum cascade lasers as ultra-sensitive probes of molecules

Saverio Bartalini, Simone Borri, Pablo Cancio Pastor, Iacopo Galli, Giovanni Giusfredi, Davide Mazzotti, Paolo De Natale

Author Affiliations +

Proceedings Volume 7945, Quantum Sensing and Nanophotonic Devices VIII; 794505 (2011) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.871401
Event: SPIE OPTO, 2011, San Francisco, California, United States

Abstract

Recently, we have demonstrated that the "intrinsic" linewidth of Quantum Cascade Lasers (QCLs) can go beyond the radiative lifetime of the upper level. This represents the first demonstration of a sub-radiative linewidth for any laser. The intrinsic linewidth of a QCL can be as narrow as hundreds Hz, paving new ways for ultra-sensitive and precise harnessing and detection of molecules. We are working towards full exploitation of such intrinsic properties by designing appropriate phase-lock loops and enhancement-cavities for interaction with molecules. Combination with optical-frequency-comb-synthesizers and appropriate spectroscopic techniques, like saturated-cavity-ring-down-SCAR or polarization spectroscopy can provide unprecedented sensitivity and frequency accuracy for molecular detection.

Citation Download Citation

Saverio Bartalini, Simone Borri, Pablo Cancio Pastor, Iacopo Galli, Giovanni Giusfredi, Davide Mazzotti, and Paolo De Natale "Narrow linewidth quantum cascade lasers as ultra-sensitive probes of molecules", Proc. SPIE 7945, Quantum Sensing and Nanophotonic Devices VIII, 794505 (24 January 2011); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.871401

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