A compact, continuous-wave terahertz source based on a quantum-cascade laser and a miniature cryocooler.
Opt Express
; 18(10): 10177-87, 2010 May 10.
Article
em En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-20588872
ABSTRACT
We report on the development of a compact, easy-to-use terahertz radiation source, which combines a quantum-cascade laser (QCL) operating at 3.1 THz with a compact, low-input-power Stirling cooler. The QCL, which is based on a two-miniband design, has been developed for high output and low electrical pump power. The amount of generated heat complies with the nominal cooling capacity of the Stirling cooler of 7 W at 65 K with 240 W of electrical input power. Special care has been taken to achieve a good thermal coupling between the QCL and the cold finger of the cooler. The whole system weighs less than 15 kg including the cooler and power supplies. The maximum output power is 8 mW at 3.1 THz. With an appropriate optical beam shaping, the emission profile of the laser is fundamental Gaussian. The applicability of the system is demonstrated by imaging and molecular-spectroscopy experiments.
Texto completo:
1
Coleções:
01-internacional
Base de dados:
MEDLINE
Assunto principal:
Iluminação
/
Ar Condicionado
/
Lasers
Idioma:
En
Revista:
Opt Express
Assunto da revista:
OFTALMOLOGIA
Ano de publicação:
2010
Tipo de documento:
Article
País de afiliação:
Alemanha