  Carbon is conventionally not associated with magnetism, and much of the
discussion of its nanotechnology perspectives appears to be centered on its
electron transport properties. Among the few existing examples of magnetic
carbon production, none has found a direct applicability in scalable micro and
nano fabrication, Here we introduce a paramagnetic form of carbon whose
precursor polymers can be lithographically patterned into micro and nano
structures prior to pyrolysis. This unreactive and thermally robust material
features strong room-temperature paramagnetism owing to a large number of
unpaired electrons with restricted mobility, which is achieved by controlling
the progression of bond dissociation and formation during pyrolysis. The
manufacture of this magnetic carbon, having (3.97 x 0.8) 10^17 spins/ mg, can
immediately benefit a number of spintronic and magnetic MEMS applications, and
also shed light on the controversial theories concerning the existence and
mechanisms of magnetism in carbon.
