Enhanced random lasing in ZnO nanocombs assisted by Fabry-Perot resonance

The ultraviolet random lasing behavior of an ensemble of ZnO nanocombs has been demonstrated. It is found that the Fabry-Perot resonance induced by nanocomb geometry can greatly enhance random lasing action with a low threshold condition. Besides, the emission spectra exhibit few sharp lasing peaks with a full width at half maximum (FWHM) of less than 0.3 nm and a narrow background emission with a FWHM of about 5 nm. Cathodoluminescence mapping images are utilized to analyze the Fabry-Perot resonance phenomenon. The resonant effect on the lasing system is further confirmed by nanocombs with different resonant cavity lengths. The unique lasing behavior induced by the simultaneous occurrence of Fabry-Perot resonance and random laser action shown here may open up a new possibility for the creation of highly efficient light emitting devices. (C)2011 Optical Society of America