Spectroscopy of lattice defects in tetrahedral II-VI compounds

Abstract

The properties of lattice defects in the tetrahedral Il-VI compounds, as revealed by optical and electron spin resonance spectroscopy, are reviewed. Particular attention is given to the A-centre, namely a complex of a cation vacancy and a shallow donor, as a model system. Cation and anion vacancies are treated but information about interstitials is scarce. Some of the older data are reinterpreted. The amount of firmly based information is small but is sufficient for tentative general ideas to be put forward.