The use of directed energy at long distances, such as for aircraft defense, requires a high power (>100 W) light source within the mid-infrared spectral region (3-5 micron). Power scaling of individual quantum cascade lasers using 1-D and 2-D arrays seems to be a straightforward approach. However, this process is critically dependent on individual laser output efficiency and thermal management. Extremely high heat flux cooling solutions are required to maintain a desirable laser operating temperature. This project explores the feasibility of scaling the output power of quantum cascade laser arrays using new high efficiency lasers and innovative packaging techniques.
Benefit: Besides aircraft and ship defense, compact and high power mid-infrared laser technology will be useful for a number of remote applications. Arrays of single mode lasers will allow for specific chemical identification with a dramatically increased range. Arrays of tunable lasers will be able to produce comprehensive chemical analysis of a region. This added functionality could lead to very sensitive, long-range chemical sensing for early warning of a chemical/ biological attack.
Keywords: Laser Packaging, Laser Packaging, power scaling, Quantum Cascade Laser
