Aquoluminescence and related phenomena [Paper No. IT-2]

The progress of our knowledge of the nature of the glow emitted during the dissolution of irradiated crystals, named Aquoluminescence (AL), is briefly reviewed. Alternative theories advanced in this regard are discussed. Spectral evidence of the glow and the role of activators and quenchers show the hydration of the electron released from F centers is the first step leading to the luminescence. Room temperature luminescence (RTL) in the irradiated crystal, with a common origin as the AL, is shown to be composed of several monomolecular terms. The regeneration of the latter by F light suggests a retrapping of the released electrons at an intermediate energy level of relatively longer life time. Some of the energy stored in the irradiated crystal can be used for effecting chemical reactions. Results in certain inorganic, organic and bio-redox reactions show that the efficiency of energy transfer varies from about 1 to about 25 per cent. (author)