Abstract: An article having a bond with increased strength is described. In one embodiment, the article comprises a first material having a thermoplastic polymer, and a second material having an expanded polytetrafluoroethylene laminate joined by a welded bond. A reinforcing component is disposed between the first and second materials to form a reinforcing region.

Abstract: A method of welding materials includes obtaining a first material having a first thermoplastic layer formed thereon; obtaining a second thermoplastic layer; positioning the first material and the second thermoplastic layer such that the first thermoplastic layer faces the second thermoplastic layer; applying energy to the first thermoplastic layer and the second thermoplastic layer at a first location to establish a first weld; applying energy to the first thermoplastic layer and the second thermoplastic layer at a second location, the second location being offset from the first location, a portion of the second location overlapping a portion of the first location.