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

Studies of angle-dependent magnetoresistance oscillations (AMRO) in the interlayer conductivity of layered metals have generally considered semiclassical electron transport. We consider a quantum correction to the semiclassical conductivity that arises from what can be described as an interlayer Cooperon. This correction 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 semiclassical 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.