SBIR-STTR Award

A low cost method of producing two dimensional (2D) laser diode arrays is being investigated. Using an assembly process, great simplifications are expected in diode array packaging. High efficiency laser wafers are being processed into broad area lasers in bar form and mounted. A prototype 2D laser array operating at 808 nm is being assembled and tested in this program. The goal is to achieve better than 40% conversion efficiency at a power density of 3 kW/cm2. The benefits of a successful program is the realization of low cost, reliable 2D diode laser arrays for pumping solid state lasers. The solid state laser would find use in military systems for communications and remote sensing. Commercial applications include metal machining with high power compact lasers and satellite communications.

Diode pumped solid state lasers offer advantages over other lasers, such as high power, compactness, and long life. Obstacles to wide deployment are the cost and reliability of large area AlGaAs laser diode arrays. In Phase II, Northeast Semiconductor, will use Molecular Beam Epitaxy to produce high quality laser diode arrays. The superior growth control and uniformity possible with MBE can give the high yield needed to reduce the cost of laser diode arrays. This array product will open near applications in remote sensing, space communications and countermeasures.