Abstract: A method of constructing a reinforced concrete structure (e.g. a cement building or pipeline) wherein an inflatable form is placed on a precast foundation and confined thereto by wrapping the exterior of the inflatable form with a layer of chain link fencing fabric. For large structures, a plurality of adjacent inflatable forms (preferably pneumatically interconnected) is employed wherein either the exterior interstitial spaces between adjacent forms are occupied by lightweight spacer means or structural walls and support means are present to further anchor the chain link fencing fabric. The inflatable form can then be highly pressurized such as to prestress the chain link fence and a uniform layer of fiber reinforced cement is applied to the form. The resulting thin walled structure exhibits excellent structural properties virtually free of form deformation and cement sloughing.

Abstract: A cylindrical inflatable bag when inflated is used as a form for a concrete structure. A large number of parallel anchor straps extend around a portion of the cylinder in planes perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the cylinder. Each strap is fixed to the inflatable form and has anchoring means on each end for securing to foundation anchors set in a foundation upon which the structure is to be constructed. The inflated bag is held in position by the straps. Reinforcing elements are supported on the outer surface of the bag. A cementitious material is then applied on an inflated bag to a thickness sufficient to cover the reinforcing elements. After the concrete is set, the bag is deflated removed with the straps for use at another site.