Specific features of photo-and electrical conduction in manganese germanium garnets

The specific features of photo-and electrical conduction in manganese germanium garnet crystals are investigated in the temperature range 4.2–370 K for the first time. Under exposure of samples with ohmic contacts to visible light, the photocurrent in these samples is observed only at high temperatures. The characteristic times of the photocurrent rise differ from those of photocurrent relaxation after the light is switched off. The inference is made that the photo-and electrical conduction is determined by the electrical recharging of manganese ions. The generation and transport of charge carriers are controlled by centers with electrical inhomogeneities and shallow attachment levels.