We present a detailed comparison between theoretical predictions on electron scattering processes in metallic single-walled carbon nanotubes with defects and experimental data obtained by scanning tunneling spectroscopy of Ar$^+$ irradiated nanotubes
. To this purpose we first develop a formalism for studying quantum transport properties of defected nanotubes in presence of source and drain contacts and an STM tip. The formalism is based on a field theoretical approach describing low-energy electrons. We account for the lack of translational invariance induced by defects within the so called extended kp approximation. The theoretical model reproduces the features of the particle-in-a-box-like states observed experimentally. Further, the comparison between theoretical and experimental Fourier-transformed local density of state maps yields clear signatures for inter- and intra-valley electron scattering processes depending on the tube chirality.
Intratube quantum dots showing particle-in-a-box-like states with level spacings up to 200meV are realized in metallic single-walled carbon nanotubes by means of low dose medium energy Ar irradiation. Fourier transform scanning tunneling spectroscopy
compared to results of a Fabry-Perot electron resonator model yields clear signatures for inter- and intra-valley scattering of electrons confined between consecutive irradiation-induced defects (inter-defects distance < 10nm). Effects arising from lifting the degeneracy of the Dirac cones within the first Brillouin zone are also observed.
