In the study, CaTiO3:Pr3+ and Ag+ nano-particles-coated CaTiO3:Pr3+ red-emitting phosphors were synthesized by the citric acid sol combustion method. The photoluminescence properties and microstructures were investigated by photoluminescence spectroscopy, X-ray powder diffraction, and scanning electron microscopy. All samples showed the consistent orthorhombic crystal structure with standard CaTiO3. The photoluminescence measurements indicated that the all the experimental samples synthesized at 800 degrees C could be excited by 323 nm ultraviolent light and the emission intensity reached its maximum value at 619 nm. The Ag+ coating on the grain surface of CaTiO3:Pr3+ red-emitting phosphors had the antibacterial properties and the sample synthesized at 800 degrees C had optimal antibacterial properties. Moreover, the antibacterial property increased with the increase in the addition of Ag+ coating. The Ag+-coated CaTiO3:Pr3+ red-emitting phosphor excited by ultraviolent radiation is a promising red phosphor for manufacturing white-light-emitting diodes as well as antibacterial materials. This multi-functional material can be applied in many areas such as medical devices. (C) 2018 The Society of Powder Technology Japan. Published by Elsevier B.V. and The Society of Powder Technology Japan. All rights reserved.