Direct transitions between states A and C in the boron-oxygen defect system — Fact or fiction?

Potential transitions in the boron-oxygen defect system are investigated using kinetic modeling and experimental data. Strong evidence is shown that no direct pathway occurs for passivation from state A and to C, and therefore, defects require formation prior to passivation. Whilst it is more difficult to rule out a possible destabilisation reaction as occurring from state C to state A, the system kinetics can adequately be described by a transition from C to B, with a subsequent dissociation of the defect. These conclusions are in agreement with the experimentally determined effectiveness of passivation as a function of temperature.