A transponder comprises a first polymer layer. A radio frequency (“RF”) transponder is affixed to the first polymer layer, wherein the RF transponder includes a processor in electrical communication with a graphene-based antenna. A second polymer layer is formed on the first polymer layer and the RF transponder. The first polymer layer and second polymer layer form an encasement around the RF transponder. The encasement has a hermeticity of about 10−7 to about 10−12 atm·cc/sec. The encasement provides improved impact, temperature, vibration, chemical, and/or corrosion protection to the RF transponder.