Abstract: This invention features a system for construction of a floor or roof slab. The system includes a starter mold configured to span a floor opening or a roof opening. The starter mold includes a first skin configured to form a diaphragm and a second skin attached to the first skin configured to reinforce the first skin.

Abstract: A structure for supporting loads includes a composite envelope filled with a filler material. The envelope may comprise a mesh or non-mesh material and may have a high tensile strength. The filler material may comprise a loose or coarse material and may be enclosed within an enclosed in a semi-permeable envelope on all sides. The resulting structure may permit an applied compressive force to result in a tensile force applied in the envelope material.

Abstract: A structure for supporting loads includes a flexible envelope filled with a filler material. The envelope may comprise a mesh or non-mesh material and may have a high tensile strength. The filler material may comprise a loose or coarse material. The resulting structure may permit an applied compressive force to result in a tensile force applied in the envelope material.