Abstract: A buoy for tethering a vessel has a pocket that retains a fastening device below an outer surface of the buoy to protect the vessel from contact by the fastening device. A method of manufacturing the buoy utilizes a processing line that molds elements of the buoy including the pocket.

Abstract: A method for bonding thermoplastic materials to other materials using a silane solution is disclosed. The method includes molding a polymeric article from a thermoplastic resin. During the molding process, a silane solution is atomized or otherwise formed into a mist and contacted with the thermoplastic resin. The thermoplastic resin then becomes doped with the silane. The silane acts as a coupling agent for bonding the thermoplastic resin to other materials, such as foams.