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A team led by Professor Dries Van Thourhout at Ghent University - imec has created nano-ridge surface-emitting lasers (NRSELs) directly grown on 300 mm silicon wafers. Utilizing one-dimensional photonic crystal modes and symmetry-protected bound states, NRSELs offer scalable and tunable surface emission, overcoming traditional VCSEL limitations.

The architecture enables emission wavelength customization through nano-ridge geometry and dielectric overlays. This technology supports integration with silicon photonics, paving the way for high-density laser arrays and electrically pumped devices. The NRSEL enhances performance and manufacturability while maintaining compatibility with semiconductor processing.