Hybrid BaYbF(5) nanoparticles: novel binary contrast agent for high-resolution in vivo X-ray computed tomography angiography.

A novel CT contrast agent denoted as BaYbF(5) @SiO(2) @PEG is presented. The as-prepared nanoparticles exhibit significantly enhanced contrast efficacy relative to clinical iodinated agents and maintain higher X-ray attenuation at different voltages, suitable for diagnostic imaging of various patients. Prolonged circulation time in vivo and low toxicity mean the nanoparticles perform excellently in in-vivo X-ray CT angiography.