We describe the performance of blue-green injection lasers containing Zn1−xMgxSySe1−y cladding layers. The devices have yielded the lowest reported threshold current densities (500 A/cm2) and the highest reported pulsed output powers (500 mW) at room temperature. Lasing has been observed at temperatures as high as 394 K. The room temperature and 85 K lasing wavelengths are 516 and 496 nm, respectively. The use of Zn1−xMgxSySe1−y, instead of ZnSzSe1−z, cladding layers provides a clear improvement in optical confinement, demonstrated by the widening of the far-field pattern in the direction perpendicular to the layers. The lasers are separate-confinement heterostructures with a ZnS0.06Se0.94 waveguiding region and a single Cd0.2Zn0.8Se strained quantum well. The entire structure is pseudomorphic with the GaAs substrate.

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Threshold current densities and wavelengths of gain maximum and longitudinal modes have been determined as a function of temperature for various laser structures. The onset of intrapulse heating has been studied and interpreted. In Zn0.92Mg0.08S0.12Se0.88/ZnS0.06Se0.94 /Zn0.8Cd0.2Se lasers, thermal resistances have been measured, using substrate-up and substrate-down mounting. From these, continuous-wave lasing regimes have been determined.

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