Bound states in the continuum in graphene quantum dot structures

TL;DR

This paper investigates the formation and experimental observability of bound states in the continuum within graphene quantum dot structures, using theoretical calculations to identify these states in symmetric heterostructures.

Contribution

It demonstrates the existence of bound states in the continuum in graphene quantum dots through local density of states and conductance analysis, advancing understanding of exotic quantum states.

Findings

Bound states in the continuum are identified in graphene quantum dots.

Symmetrical heterostructures support these bound states.

The study provides a theoretical basis for experimental observation.

Abstract

The existence of bound states in the continuum was predicted at the dawn of quantum mechanics by von Neumann and Wigner. In this work we discuss the mechanism of formation of these exotic states and the feasibility to observe them experimentally in symmetrical heterostructures composed by segments of graphene ribbons with different widths forming a graphene quantum dot. We identify the existence of bound states in the continuum in these graphene quantum dot systems by means of local density of states and electronic conductance calculations.