Room temperature photopumped laser operation of native-oxide-defined coupled GaAs-AlAs superlattice microrings

Data are presented on the room temperature photopumped laser operation of GaAs-AlAs superlattice microrings in single, coupled pair, and coupled hexagonal-ring configurations. The lasers are fabricated from a GaAs-AlAs superlattice (L(z) similar to 30 Angstrom, L(B) similar to 70 Angstrom) that is selectively disordered and deep oxidized (H2O vapor+N-2) through its entire thickness to form high-index-contrast planar microrings (11 mu m o.d., 3 mu m i.d.). Thresholds are similar to 1.7x10(5) W/cm(2) (similar to 150 mW, pump power) for single microrings and 4.3x10(5) W/cm(2) for the pair and hexagonal-ring geometries. Single, coupled pair, and even-numbered coupled microrings arranged in a ''ring'' (circular) configuration exhibit multiple single modes or more typically twin modes at microring whispering-gallery mode spacings. Microrings are of interest as basic elements in more extended photonic structures, and should be compatible with diode operation of micro lasers. (C) 1996 American Institute of Physics.