Title :
Continuous-Wave Reflection Imaging Using Optical Feedback Interferometry in Terahertz and Mid-Infrared Quantum Cascade Lasers
Author :
Mezzapesa, F.P. ; Petruzzella, M. ; Dabbicco, M. ; Beere, H.E. ; Ritchie, D.A. ; Vitiello, M.S. ; Scamarcio, G.
Author_Institution :
Dept. of Phys., Univ. of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Bari, Italy
Abstract :
In this paper, we investigate a coherent imaging system based on Terahertz and mid-infrared (MIR) quantum cascade lasers (QCLs) in terms of phase sensitivity against optical feedback. In the self-mixing scheme, a single QCL acting as oscillator, mixer and detector of infrared radiation, is used for continuous-wave reflection imaging as well as phase profiling. We study the dependence of the phase signature on the optical feedback level and assess the limit for phase signal detection.
Keywords :
image sensors; infrared detectors; laser feedback; light interferometry; measurement by laser beam; optical signal detection; quantum cascade lasers; MIR; coherent imaging system; continuous-wave reflection imaging; infrared radiation detector; mid-infrared quantum cascade laser; mixer; optical feedback interferometry; optical feedback level; oscillator; phase profiling; phase sensitivity; phase signal detection; phase signature; self-mixing scheme; single QCL; terahertz quantum cascade laser; Laser feedback; Optical feedback; Optical imaging; Optical interferometry; Optical sensors; Quantum cascade lasers; Quantum cascade laser (QCL); THz imaging; laser sensors; optical feedback interferometry; optical sensing;
Journal_Title :
Terahertz Science and Technology, IEEE Transactions on
DOI :
10.1109/TTHZ.2014.2329312