INVESTIGATION OF THE EFFECT OF REDUCED GRAPHENE OXIDE ON THE STRUCTURAL PROPERTIES OF TITANIUM DIOXIDE

This paper investigates the effect of reduced graphene oxide (rGO) on titanium dioxide’s (TiO₂) structural and physico-chemical properties. Using rGO as a TiO₂ modifier is essential for increasing its photocatalytic activity and improving its mechanical and electrical characteristics. During the study, TiO₂/rGO nanocomposites of various concentrations of reduced graphene were obtained, which were subjected to structural analysis using scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy. The results showed that adding rGO contributes to a change in the crystal structure of tio2 and improves its textural characteristics, such as porosity and surface. The effect of the rGO concentration on the properties of nanocomposites was also studied, which allowed us to identify the optimal ratio for increasing the photocatalytic activity of TiO₂. Additionally, spectroscopic studies were carried out, confirming the improvement of the conductive properties and stability of TiO₂ with the addition of rGO. The results open prospects for developing highly efficient TiO₂-based materials with improved water purification, solar energy, and sensor functional properties. Keywords: reduced graphene oxide, titanium dioxide, nanocomposite material, photocatalysis, photodetector.