Abstract: A flexible element such as a small diameter filament or tubule comprising an outer body portion formed of a high molecular weight organic composition which protectively encloses therein polymerizable organic material in a pliable form and which is transformed into a rigid element when exposed to a source of wave energy having an intensity sufficient to effect substantial polymerization of said polymerizable material; whereby said element is adapted to be shaped into any desired configuration before exposure to said wave energy and rigidifiable while in said configuration on exposure to said wave energy without application of any surface coating to said element. Divisional application of U.S. Ser. No. 509,452, filed Sept. 26, 1974 now U.S. Pat. No. 3,990,437.

Abstract: The article used and the method of forming a support structure, such as an orthopedic cast, comprising interlacing one or more flexible, pliable filaments having a photopolymerizable material enclosed entirely within the interior of the filaments so as to form a pliable fabric article which can be readily conformed to the surface with which it is in contact and exposing the fabric article to a source of wave energy, such as ultra-violet light, which effects polymerization of the material within the filament and transforming the fabric into a rigid structure entirely by means of the mechanical interlock formed between the filaments; thereby forming a rigid support structure without the application of a malodorous, sticky or powdered stiffening or bonding agent to the outer surface of the filaments or fabric.