We theoretically propose a novel plasmonic laser based on the band edge modes of one-dimensional plasmonic crystal in an asymmetric dielectric environment. We find that the quality factors of the band edge modes are high and comparable to that of the collective resonances of surface plasmon in symmetric background. Moreover, surface plasmon lasing of single mode is numerically demonstrated with a full-wave Maxwell-Bloch approach. And it is also shown simultaneously lasing of both radiative and non-radiative modes due to spatial hole burning, enabling the realization of coherent source of both light and surface plasmon in a single platform. Finally, we discuss the dependence of the sensitivity of the plasmonic laser mode on the geometrical and material parameters. Our model provides an easy-to-use approach for future silicon-based on-chip applications such as low-threshold plasmonic laser and solid-state lighting emission.

Plasmonics, 2015