a process for the production of a polymeric article comprises the steps of : forming a ply having successive layers , namely a first layer made up of strands of an oriented polymeric material ; a second layer of a polymeric material ; a third layer made up of strands of an oriented polymeric material , wherein the second layer has a lower peak melting temperature than that of the first and third layers ; subjecting the ply to conditions of time , temperature and pressure sufficient to melt a proportion of the first layer , to melt the second layer entirely , and to melt a proportion of the third layer ; and to compact the ply ; and cooling the compacted ply . the resultant articles have good mechanical properties yet may be made at lower compaction temperatures than articles not employing the second layer , leading to a more controllable manufacturing process .