Technological basics for organic thin film laser diodes
The main goal of this collaboration is the development and first demonstration of organic thin-film laser diodes.
Work is to be done on basic research of an entirely new kind of a coherent-emitting light source based on plastics. The use of thin films of organic semiconductors allows not only the possibility of tuning over the whole visible light spectrum, but also gives many advantages over inorganic materials in the area of processing. These are for example the possibility of large area coating, mechanical flexibility and low-cost production. To realize organic laser diodes, organic semiconductors (conjugated monomers, oligomers and polymers) with well-defined properties have to be synthesized and optimized. Basic examination of structures and materials have to be undertaken to reach the desired properties of the devices. We especially refer to the "German agenda optical technologies for the 21st century", where the central role of new and cheap radiation sources for many key technologies is emphasized. Because of the simplicity, versatility and the possibilities for integration of devices made from organic materials, the development of an organic laser diode could present new and cost-efficient solutions for medical/bioanalytical sensor technologies, information processing and laser-based measurement instrumentation.
Etched gratings in oxidized silicon wafers.