FLEXIBLE COMPOSITE

A flexible composite that can be set to become rigid or semi-rigid includes a first layer and a second layer opposing the first layer and separated from the first layer by a space. A fill material capable of setting to a rigid or semi-rigid solid is located in the space. A plurality of elements extend substantially into the space from the first layer and/or the second layer and which may pass through the opposing layer or join with other elements present in the space from an opposing layer, thereby forming linking elements for joining the layers together. The unset fill material is provided in the space at a pressure such that tension is applied one or more of the linking elements and to cause the first and/or second layers to bulge outwards relative to the longitudinal length of said one or more linking elements under tension.