Abstract: A polymeric void-board is placed between adjacent horizontal layers of bricks to maintain an opening in a lower of the layers. The void-board is fabricated from a first relatively thin planar element having first and second surfaces having a plurality of parallel ribs extending from and generally transverse to the first surface and a second relatively thin planar element having first and second surfaces having a plurality of parallel ribs extending from and generally transverse to the first surface. The first and second elements are joined to one another with the ribs of the first element engaging and joined to the second element.

Abstract: A polymeric batten for supporting an associated load includes a main body having a base wall having a pair of opposing, spaced apart upstanding side walls extending upwardly from the base wall and a pair of opposing, spaced apart legs extending downwardly from the base wall. The legs are spaced from one another a predetermined distance and the side walls are spaced from one another a predetermined distance. The upstanding side walls and base wall define a generally U-shaped profile and the legs and base wall define a generally inverted U-shaped profile that defines a strap receiving region configured for receiving an associated strap material disposed around the load and the batten. A load strapping and supporting system is also disclosed.

Abstract: An edge or corner protector comprises an apex portion and a pair of leg members extending away from the apex portion so as to define an angle of approximately 90° therebetween. The apex portion and leg members are defined by a plurality of paper plies which have at least two different width dimensions. Relatively narrow and relatively broad paper plies are alternatively arranged with respect to each other whereby the apex portion and proximal portions of the leg members are formed by both the broad and narrow paper plies whereas distal portions of the leg members are formed only by the broad paper plies. In this manner, increased thickness and strength is provided within the apex and proximal portions of the leg members as needed, the distal portions of the leg members nevertheless facilitate mounting, positioning, and orientation of the edge or corner protectors upon edge or corner regions of articles to be protected, and a substantial reduction in the overall raw material cost is achieved.