Novel burst-free, sustained release biocompatible and biodegrable microcapsules which can be programmed to release their active core for variable durations ranging from 1-100 days in an aqueous physiological environment. The containment system includes an immersion fluid barrier formed by a pressurized gas that is supplied to a location adjacent to the immersion area. Each load support component has a generally horizontal load support member which is configured to support a particular type of load in the field, and a generally vertically extending support strut which extends from a midsection of the horizontal load support member.