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Purpose The aim of this paper is to synthesize graphene-modified titanium dioxide (GR-TiO2) nanorod arrays nanocomposite films, so that these can enhance the photocatalytic properties of titanium dioxide and overcome the problem of difficult separation and recovery of photocatalysts.Design/methodology/approach The GR-TiO2 nanocomposite films were synthesized via hydrothermal method and spin-coating. The obtained samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), ultraviolet–visible (UV-Vis) diffuse reflectance spectrum and Raman spectrum. The photocatalytic performance of the GR-TiO2 nanocomposite films for degrading Rhodamin B under ultraviolet (UV) was studied by a UV-Vis spectrophotometer. The photocatalytic enhancement mechanism of graphene was studied by photoelectrochemical analysis.Findings The introduction of graphene expanded the range of the optical response of TiO2 nanorod arrays, improving the separation efficiency of the photogenerated electron-hole pairs, and thus dramatically increasing its photocatalytic performance.Research limitations/implications A simple and novel way for synthesizing GR-TiO2 nanocomposite films has enhanced the photocatalytic performance of TiO2.Originality/value The photocatalyst synthesized is easy to separate and recycle in the process of photocatalytic reaction, so it is possible to achieve industrialization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]