Basic properties of the F-type centers in halides, oxides and perovskites

We present a short survey of the optical properties of primary radiation-induced point defects in alkali halides, simple oxides and some ABO₃ perovskites. We discuss in details the optical properties of single electron F and F⁺ centers in rock-salt (f.c.c.) alkali halides and oxides and show that the Mollwo-Ivey law well-known for the F-type centers in alkali halides may be extended for other rock-salt structure insulators. We also discuss the major differences in point defect production mechanisms in halides and oxides. We show that the Rabin-Klick diagram may be generalized for a whole family of alkali halides. The F-type center migration and aggregation into metal colloids in alkali halides and oxides is also discussed.