Second order DFB lasing using reusable grating inscribed in azobenzene-containing material

A distributed-feedback laser, operating in the spectral range of 590-670 nm is reported. The laser device is based on surface relief grating providing a second order DFB structure. The surface relief grating is inscribed in an azobenzene-containing material and an active layer realized in high refractive index poly(phenylquinoxaline) matrix. It is shown that the design of laser device provides for the possibility of simple replacement of an active layer. This allows, in particular, laser wavelength tuning without rewriting of the surface relief grating.