Optically pumped Hg1−xZnxTe lasers grown by liquid phase epitaxy

Optically pumped stimulated emission is reported for the first time from Hg1−xZnxTe (x≊0.23) epilayers grown by liquid phase epitaxy. Pulsed lasing was observed up to 70 K. Maximum single mirror peak power output of 23 and 2 mW was measured at 12 and 70 K, respectively. The laser emission spectra consisted of a strong line around 5.4 μm, and a weaker one, 6–7 meV below it, which were attributed to band-to-band and to band-to-acceptor transitions. Far-field patterns with angular width of θ⊥=4° and θ∥≊2.5° have been observed perpendicular and parallel to the layer plane, respectively.