Broad band p-Ge optical amplifier of terahertz radiation

A solid state broad band amplifier of terahertz radiation (1.5–4 THz), based on intersubband transitions of hot holes in p-Ge is demonstrated. The gain is investigated as a function of applied magnetic and electric fields by transmission measurements using a laser system with two p-Ge active crystals, when one operates as an oscillator and one as an amplifier. A peak gain higher than usually reported for p-Ge lasers has been achieved using time separated excitation of the oscillator and amplifier. Distinct differences in gain dependence on applied fields are noted between low- and high-frequency modes of p-Ge laser operation.