Aggregate is what engineers call the materials added to concrete mixtures to add volume and strength. The aggregate most people are used to are pebbles, but this also includes simple rebar, metal meshes, special metallic rods and even styrofoam. New mixes of concrete are harder, lighter and more durable than ever before and can set so quickly, the pour has to be carefully timed.

One of the key characters in The Company, David Bridges, is an engineer/contractor who has made a close study of modern cement and has the ability to use modern cement mixes and form injection techniques. He can build structures faster and cheaper than has ever been possible before.