Robust High-Power Diodes for Next Generation Laser Systems

Executive Summary

We aim to increase high-power laser diode device brightness by researching the material science related to output power loss during laser operating lifetime and developing device engineering methods to mitigate failure modes and pack diodes closer together. If successful, we could triple state-of-the-art brightness and enable a robust industrial supply of reliable, cost-effective laser diode devices that offer better performance, greater surety, and improved size, weight, and power for next-generation, high-energy-density physics and other mission-related applications.

Publications, Presentations, and Patents

Cassada, Nicole. “Immersion Cooling of Laser Diodes for High Brightness Applications.” Presented at the Directed Energy Professionals Society (DEPS), Mobile, AL. April 27, 2022.

Fenwick, W. E., R. J. Deri, S. H. Baxamusa, D. L. Pope, M. C. Boisselle, D. M. Dutra, N. P. Allen, M. Crowley, P. Thiagarajan, and T. Hosoda. 2022. “Facet Effects on Generation-Recombination Currents in Semiconductor Laser Diodes.” Semiconductor Science and Technology 37 (9): 09LT01. https://doi.org/10.1088/1361-6641/ac8117.

Kotovsky, Jack, Salmaan H. Baxamusa, Clint D. Frye, Thomas Spinka, Ian S. Ladner, Devin J. Funaro, David Hobby, Caleb Anderson, and Todd Bandhauer. “Once Through Microchannel Laser Diode Cooling.” Patent Application 17/227,132, filed April 9, 2021.

Swertfeger, Rebecca B., Matthew C. Boisselle, Robert Deri, David M. Dutra, Paul R. Ehrmann, William E. Fenwick, Clint D. Frye, et al. 2022. “Operation of Broad Area High Power Diode Lasers Immersed in Coolant.” In Components and Packaging for Laser Systems VIII, 11982:44–49. SPIE. https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2605768.