Enhancing performance of polymer-based microlasers by a pedestal geometry

Polymer-based micro-lasers have recently drawn attention due to their attractive features in terms of technological potential, while providing deeper physical insights. In this perspective, we are reporting a number of advances which are related to the practical implementation of a relatively new design whereby micro-cavities are set on pedestals, in contrast with earlier architectures where the resonators were set in full contact with the substrate. Such a pedestal structure is shown to be responsible for a spectacular increase in the lasing efficiency. Depending on the cavity shape, the output power increase can reach up to 3 orders of magnitude. The emitted spectra also exhibit an enriched structure revealed by more favorable lasing and output coupling conditions. Simulations support experimental results and designate the crucial role of the cavity edges in light output coupling processes. Perspectives towards sensing applications are outlined as well as insights into fundamental issues of great practical implications such as wedge diffraction or effective index approximation. (C) 2012 American Institute of Physics. [http://dx.doi.org/10.1063/1.4720474]