InAs-based interband cascade lasers operated close to room temperature with emission wavelengths near 8 µm

We report substantial progress in developing InAs-based interband cascade lasers (ICLs) based on a hybrid cladding configuration with near room temperature operation in an emission wavelength range from 7.5 to 8.5 µm. An ICL device was demonstrated in a pulsed mode at temperatures up to 280 K at 7.71 µm, while another ICL device from a different wafer achieved pulsed lasing operation at temperatures up to 275 K at 8.22 µm. They are more than 50 K higher than the previous record for ICLs at similar wavelengths, representing the highest operating temperatures for ICLs in this wavelength region. These ICL devices exhibited threshold current densities as low as 2.3 A/cm 2 at 80 K, indicating excellent material quality. Analysis and discussion suggest room for further advances.