▎ 摘　　要

NOVELTY - An oilfield element (E1) is made of a composite comprising a matrix material, and several functionalized graphene sheets dispersed in the polymeric matrix. USE - As an oilfield element e.g. packer elements, submersible pump motor protector bags, sensor protectors, blow out preventer elements, sucker rods, O-rings, T-rings, gaskets, pump shaft seals, tube seals, valve seals, seals and insulators in electrical components, useful in an oilfield apparatus (claimed), for exploring, testing or producing hydrocarbons. ADVANTAGE - The functionalized graphene sheets have an aspect ratio greater than 100, thus enhancing the electrical conductivity and barrier properties of the polymeric matrix. The use of exfoliated or expanded graphitic materials, particularly functionalized graphene sheets (e.g. TEGO), offers a commercially feasible way to develop inexpensive polymer nanocomposites with good barrier and mechanical properties. The expanded graphite nanofillers are at least 500 times less expensive than carbon nanotubes and offer comparable enhancements in mechanical properties at only a fractional cost of carbon nanotubes. DETAILED DESCRIPTION - INDEPENDENT CLAIMS are included for the following: (1) method of oilfield operation involving selecting an oilfield apparatus having (E1), and using the oilfield apparatus in an oilfield operation, thus exposing (E1) to an oilfield environment; and (2) modifying a functionalized graphene sheet involving subjecting the functionalized graphene sheet to atom transfer radical polymerization to attach polymers on surfaces of the functionalized graphene sheet.