Modal expansion analysis of strained photonic lattices based on vertical cavity surface emitting laser arrays

The optical modes of lasing photonic lattices incorporating alternating-she ar strain were analyzed using a background-resonator mode expansion model. The model correctly explains the observed locking of the photon mode near f ields to square or hexagonal-like lattice patterns for subcritical strain v alues, as well as the abrupt switching between the two mode patterns. Contr ol of the optical mode switching point by adjusting the lattice reflectivit y is proposed and analyzed. (c) 1999 American Institute of Physics. [S0003- 6951(99)00624-5].