Quantum interference and weak localisation effects in the interlayer magnetoresistance of layered metals

TL;DR

This paper introduces a quantum correction to interlayer conductivity in layered metals, explaining experimental anomalies in magnetoresistance through an interlayer Cooperon mechanism, especially when magnetic fields are nearly parallel to layers.

Contribution

It presents a novel quantum correction model involving an interlayer Cooperon, extending understanding beyond semi-classical transport in layered metals.

Findings

Predicts a resistivity peak when magnetic field aligns with layers.

Explains experimental data not fitting semi-classical models.

Applicable even with weak interlayer coherence.

Abstract

Studies of angle-dependent magnetoresistance oscillations (AMRO) in the interlayer conductivity of layered metals have generally considered semi-classical electron transport. We consider a quantum correction to the semi-classical conductivity that arises from what can be described as an interlayer Cooperon. This depends on both the disorder potential within a layer and the correlations of the disorder potential between layers. We compare our results with existing experimental data on organic charge transfer salts that are not explained within the standard semi-classical transport picture. In particular, our results may be applicable to effects that have been seen when the applied magnetic field is almost parallel to the conducting layers. We predict the presence of a peak in the resistivity as the field direction approaches the plane of the layers. The peak can occur even when there is weakly incoherent transport between layers.