Asymmetric AlGaAs quantum wells for second-harmonic generation and quasiphase matching of visible light in surface emitting waveguides

Abstract

We present an analytical calculation of the second‐order susceptibility for second‐harmonic generation of visible radiation in asymmetric AlGaAs quantum wells. The calculation suggests that a second‐order susceptibility magnitude equal to that of bulk GaAs can be achieved in optimally designed wells. The sign of the second‐order susceptibility can be changed by inverting the well asymmetry so that quasiphase matching of the second‐harmonic generation is possible. Simulation of a multiquantum well surface emitting waveguide designed for quasiphase‐matched second‐harmonic generation indicates that second‐harmonic conversion efficiency can be improved by over a factor of 100.