Nanoscale structures with GO “armor” for protecting mechanical properties of EP in cryogenic irradiation environments

A radiation-resistant nanocomposite exhibiting robust mechanical performance at cryogenic temperatures is developed based on a one-dimensional–two-dimensional (1D–2D) hybrid architecture, designated CPN CuO NGO. This material integrates cyclodextrin polymer (CPN)-functionalized CuO nanorods firmly anchored on amino-functionalized graphene oxide (NGO), with the NGO sheets serving as protective layers that shield the nanorods from environmental degradation. When incorporated into epoxy resin (EP), the CPN CuO NGO hybrid markedly enhances the composite's stability under combined γ-irradiation and cryogenic exposure. The π-conjugated sp² domains of NGO efficiently scavenge irradiation-induced peroxide radicals, achieving a radical scavenging efficiency of 46.3 %. After exposure to 800 kGy γ-irradiation, the EP/CPN CuO NGO composite retains 93.0 % of its original tensile strength at 77 K, with an absolute tensile strength of 115.85 MPa—substantially higher than that of neat EP under identical conditions. This work provides a rational design strategy for multifunctional nanocomposites that simultaneously withstand intense ionizing radiation, cryogenic temperatures, and mechanical stress, offering promising material solutions for aerospace and nuclear applications operating in extreme environments.