a process for the production of a polymeric article directed to forming a ply having successive layers , namely , a first layer made up of strands of an oriented polymer 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 that of the first and third layers ; subjecting the ply to conditions of time , temperature , and pressure sufficient to melt a proportion of the firsts 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 a lower compaction temperature than articles not employing the second layer , leading to a more controllable manufacturing process .