A method of bonding two elements such as wafers used in microelectronics applications is disclosed. One inventive aspect relates to a method for bonding comprising producing on a first main surface of a first element a first solder ball, producing on a first main surface of a second element a second solder ball, providing contact between the first solder ball and the second solder ball, bonding the first element and the second element by applying a reflow act whereby the solder balls melt and form a joined solder ball structure. Prior to the bonding, the first solder ball is laterally embedded in a nonconductive material, such that the upper part of the first solder ball is not covered by the non-conductive material. Devices related to such methods are also disclosed.