a method is disclosed of coating articles of manufacture to prevent corrosion which comprises applying a thermoplastic coating material to the article , applying a layer of fibrous material over the coating material , wetting the layer of fibrous material , and heating the three components , whereby contraction of the fibrous material , during heating , will compress the coating material and counteract its deformation tendencies such that it is well bonded to the article . the thermoplastic coating material is preferably applied in the form of a coating tape comprising the thermoplastic coating material and a thermoplastic adhesive and is used to provide a protective coating for underground pipe .