A functional material using zirconium phosphate as carrier loaded with zinc ions (Zn²⁺) or zinc oxide (ZnO). It strongly inhibits and kills pathogens such as E. coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans, with zinc uniformly distributed in a stable form that does not induce drug resistance. It withstands 500 °C without discolouration and resists UV, acids and alkalis, and is safe and non-toxic, making it suitable for food packaging and medical devices. It is widely used in antibacterial dressings, plastics and textiles, antibacterial coatings and ceramic glazes, water purification and antibacterial fresh-keeping packaging.