Optical detection of electron-nuclear double resonance for an S=1 luminescent center in GaP:O

Abstract

The origin of a triplet (S=1) optically detected magnetic-resonance (ODMR) spectrum observed in the luminescence of GaP:O has been the subject of recent controversy. Originally identified with the negative-charge state of a substitutional oxygen impurity, more recent suggestions have interpreted a resolved I=3/2 hyperfine interaction in the ODMR to indicate an interstitial-gallium-related defect. We report here optical detection of electron-nuclear double resonance (ODENDOR) of the central I=3/2 nucleus and confirm unambiguously that it is gallium. Its magnetic hyperfine and nuclear quadrupole interactions are determined and an improved analysis of the electron spin Hamiltonian is presented. A possible model for the defect is suggested: a ?100?-oriented GaiVGa pair stabilized by the presence of one or two nearby substitutional oxygen donors. The ODENDOR spectrum arises from the M=0 state, causing unusual magnetic-field and orientation effects. The origin of these effects is described and the procedure of analysis to extract the hyperfine parameters is outlined.