Micro- and nanodisk lasers have emerged as highly promising optical sources and probes in the fields of nanophotonics and biomedicine. These lasers offer precise wavelength control and ultra-narrowband precision, making them essential for a range of applications including on-chip photonic communications, on-chip bioimaging, biochemical sensing, and quantum photonic information processing. However, the fabrication of these micro- and nanodisk lasers on a large scale presents significant challenges.
The deterministic wavelength and ultra-narrowband precision achieved by micro- and nanodisk lasers are crucial for their diverse applications. In the realm of on-chip photonic communications, these lasers enable fast and efficient data transmission by emitting light at specific wavelengths. This capability ensures reliable and secure communication within integrated photonic circuits. Similarly, in on-chip bioimaging, micro- and nanodisk lasers provide high-resolution imaging with minimal background noise, allowing for detailed analysis and diagnosis of biological samples at the nanoscale.
Moreover, micro- and nanodisk lasers play a vital role in biochemical sensing. By detecting subtle changes in the surrounding environment, such as variations in refractive index or molecule binding events, they enable highly sensitive and selective detection of biomolecules. This capability holds great potential for applications in medical diagnostics, environmental monitoring, and food safety.
Furthermore, micro- and nanodisk lasers are instrumental in the field of quantum photonic information processing. Their ability to emit single photons with precise wavelengths and narrow linewidths is essential for generating and manipulating quantum states of light. This technology forms the foundation for quantum computing, quantum cryptography, and quantum communication systems, which promise unprecedented levels of computational power and data security.
Despite their immense potential, the large-scale fabrication of micro- and nanodisk lasers with precise wavelength control remains challenging. Current nanofabrication processes introduce unwanted randomness in the diameter of the disk structures, hindering the uniformity and reproducibility of the lasers. This randomness arises from variations in material properties, process conditions, and other factors inherent to nanofabrication techniques.
Efforts are underway to overcome these challenges and improve the fabrication precision of micro- and nanodisk lasers. Researchers are exploring innovative fabrication techniques that minimize randomness and enhance control over the diameter of the disk structures. Such advancements would not only ensure consistent and reliable performance but also enable cost-effective mass production of these lasers, opening doors to broader applications in various fields.
In conclusion, micro- and nanodisk lasers represent a highly promising technology with numerous applications in nanophotonics and biomedicine. Their deterministic wavelength control and ultra-narrowband precision make them indispensable for on-chip photonic communications, on-chip bioimaging, biochemical sensing, and quantum photonic information processing. Overcoming the current challenges associated with large-scale fabrication is crucial to harnessing the full potential of these lasers and unlocking their transformative impact in diverse industries.
