Cathodoluminescence spectral imaging as a technique for the study of cavity degradation of high-power QW lasers

Laser degradation is usually reported to occur on the facet mirrors; however, inner cavity degradation also occurs. To improve the understanding of the degradation mechanisms local spectroscopic techniques are necessary. Spectrum imaging cathodoluminescence appears as a powerful tool to study the materials changes induced by the laser degradation. Spectrum imaging allows to map the distribution of the different spectral parameters of the QW luminescence. The application of this experimental method to the study of cavity degradation in InGaAs/GaAs 980 nm pump lasers is discussed. According to the results obtained one can establish a story of the laser degradation.