Abstract: Polymeric compositions for use in nuclear applications that exhibit long-lasting protection from degradation in the presence of oxygen (e.g., air) and high energy radiation, even when utilized in high temperature applications are described. The polymeric compositions include a particulate additive that incorporates a zinc-based solid-state antioxidant. The antioxidant can be a binary or ternary zinc-based material that can include one or more additional metals and optionally can include oxygen.