THz频段的量子级联激光器通过电子在半导体量子阱导带子带间的跃迁发光,是具有连续波操作特性和电泵浦特性的THz源。THz量子级联激光器具有体积小、重量轻、紧凑且易集成等特点,是目前发射能量最高的固态THz源。对近年来双金属波导型THz量子级联激光器在窄光束角、频率可调谐和高功率输出三方面的发展进行综述和介绍。

Quantum cascade lasers (QCLs) in terahertz frequency emit terahertz radiation by intersubband optical transitions in conduction band of semiconductor quantum wells. Terahertz QCLs are the terahertz sources which are able to be electrically pumped and operated in continuous-wave. Terahertz quantum cascade lasers are small, light, compact, and easy for integration, and they are the solid-state terahertz sources that have the highest output power. This article will review the recent developments of double-metal terahertz QCLs in terms of narrow beam pattern, frequency tunability,and high output power.