Metal-free spin channels in graphitic boron-nitrogen nanostructures

Evidence is given for the existence of metal-free spin channels in an insulating medium. First-principles calculations indicate the presence of an unpaired spin, in a ground state boron-nitrogen nanostructure with a carbon zig-zag chain generated by the inclusion of a disclination with either negative or positive Gaussian curvature. The spin-polarized states are delocalized on the carbon chain suggesting possible spintronics applications.