Grant: Research Tools and Instruments - Category 1 (<$150,000)
University of Waterloo
$80,165.00
A state-of-the-art terahertz quantum device characterization platform
FY 2013-14
Summary
The external performance of nanoelectronic and quantum optoelectronic devices such as quantum cascade lasers, semiconductor quantum well photodetectors, semiconductor optical amplifier, etc, is governed by their inner workings as described by modal gain, optical loss, free carrier absorption, carrier transport. Without an experimental means of probing these crucial parameters, the chief mechanisms responsible for sub-par device performance remain speculative at best. This award provides essential support for the acquisition of urgently-needed components and instruments to complete and upgrade a semiconductor quantum device characterization platform. This platform will be used to carry out electrical, optical, spectral, temporal and temperature-dependent measurements of terahertz quantum devices. This customized system will serve as a versatile and enabling tool for multiple research activities, becoming an integrated part of the recently-built and state-of-the-art Quantum-Nano Center at the University of Waterloo. The proposed system is particularly indispensible for the applicants' ongoing research projects on semiconductor quantum optoelectronic devices. It will provide vital capabilities to our research on: 1) development and characterization of THz quantum cascade lasers; 2) investigation of internal dynamic processes of quantum semiconductor heterostructures; 3) optimization of terahertz quantum cascade lasers for high-temperature (above 230K) operation; 4) exploration of terahertz amplifiers and terahertz detectors based on semiconductor quantum structures. Ultimately, it will allow us to advance our efforts towards development of high-performance semiconductor components for THz imaging, THz communication, bio- and environmental sensing applications. In addition, it will help extend our research into new areas such as nanotechnology and nanoelectronic devices. Not only does the proposed system fit the most demanding research application requirements, it is a great teaching tool for our graduate students and other HQP, which is important to prepare qualified workforce for Canadian high-tech industries. This advanced device characterization platform will enrich our research and education opportunities.
Program
Research Tools and Instruments - Category 1 (<$150,000)
Recipient
Location
Ontario, Canada
Recipient Type
Academia
Type
Grant
Source
NSERC's Awards Data
As published
Application id
458493-2014
Name nom
Ban, Dayan
Department département
Electrical & Computer Engineering
Organization id
33
Institution établissement
University of Waterloo
Province en
Ontario
Province fr
Ontario
Country en
CANADA
Country fr
CANADA
Fiscal year exercice financier
2013
Competition year année de concours
2014
Award amount
80165
Program id
EQPEQ
Program name en
Research Tools and Instruments - Category 1 (<$150,000)
Program name fr
Outils et instruments de recherche - catégorie 1 (<150 000$)
Group en
Discovery grants programs
Group fr
Programmes de subventions à la découverte
Committee code
1510
Committee name en
Electrical and Computer Engineering
Committee name fr
Génie électrique et informatique
Area of application code
1206
Area of application group en
Advancement of knowledge
Area of application group fr
Avancement des connaissances
Area of application en
Engineering
Area of application fr
Génie
Research subject code
2505
Research subject group en
Electrical and electronic engineering
Research subject group fr
Génie électrique et électronique
Research subject en
Photon devices
Research subject fr
Dispositifs photoniques
Partie
1
Nb partie
1
Application title
A state-of-the-art terahertz quantum device characterization platform
Keyword
NSERC
Application summary
The external performance of nanoelectronic and quantum optoelectronic devices such as quantum cascade lasers, semiconductor quantum well photodetectors, semiconductor optical amplifier, etc, is governed by their inner workings as described by modal gain, optical loss, free carrier absorption, carrier transport. Without an experimental means of probing these crucial parameters, the chief mechanisms responsible for sub-par device performance remain speculative at best. This award provides essential support for the acquisition of urgently-needed components and instruments to complete and upgrade a semiconductor quantum device characterization platform. This platform will be used to carry out electrical, optical, spectral, temporal and temperature-dependent measurements of terahertz quantum devices. This customized system will serve as a versatile and enabling tool for multiple research activities, becoming an integrated part of the recently-built and state-of-the-art Quantum-Nano Center at the University of Waterloo. The proposed system is particularly indispensible for the applicants' ongoing research projects on semiconductor quantum optoelectronic devices. It will provide vital capabilities to our research on: 1) development and characterization of THz quantum cascade lasers; 2) investigation of internal dynamic processes of quantum semiconductor heterostructures; 3) optimization of terahertz quantum cascade lasers for high-temperature (above 230K) operation; 4) exploration of terahertz amplifiers and terahertz detectors based on semiconductor quantum structures. Ultimately, it will allow us to advance our efforts towards development of high-performance semiconductor components for THz imaging, THz communication, bio- and environmental sensing applications. In addition, it will help extend our research into new areas such as nanotechnology and nanoelectronic devices. Not only does the proposed system fit the most demanding research application requirements, it is a great teaching tool for our graduate students and other HQP, which is important to prepare qualified workforce for Canadian high-tech industries. This advanced device characterization platform will enrich our research and education opportunities.
