Two-dimensional photonic band-gap defect mode laser

A laser cavity formed from a single defect in a two-dimensional photon ic c rystal is demonstrated. The optical microcavity consists of a half waveleng th-thick waveguide for vertical confinement and a two-dimensional photonic crystal mirror for lateral Localization. A defect in the photonic crystal i s introduced to trap photons inside a volume of 2.5 cubic half-wavelengths, approximately 0.03 cubic micrometers. The laser is fabricated in the indiu m gallium arsenic phosphide material system, and optical gain is provided b y strained quantum wells designed for a peak emission wavelength of 1.55 mi crometers at room temperature. Pulsed lasing action has been observed at a wavelength of 1.5 micrometers from optically pumped devices with a substrat e temperature of 143 kelvin.