NRC — Ice Tank - 21 m Research Facility

Developing technologies for Arctic and northern marine environments comes with unique risks, especially when ice interactions are involved. For companies, researchers, and innovators working on vessels, offshore structures, or cold-region infrastructure, the NRC — Ice Tank – 21 m Research Facility offers a practical way to test ideas before committing to full-scale deployment. Operated by the National Research Council of Canada in Ottawa, this specialized indoor facility allows projects to be evaluated under controlled ice and cold-temperature conditions that closely mimic real-world northern environments.

Rather than traditional grant funding, this opportunity is delivered as a fee-for-service research and testing collaboration. Businesses can work directly with NRC experts to study ice–structure interactions, seabed scouring, or the performance of new designs and materials in ice-covered waters. The facility supports customized testing programs, including towing tests and wave simulations, helping reduce technical uncertainty and strengthen the case for commercialization. Costs vary depending on the scope and complexity of the project, with support structured as non-repayable access to world-class research infrastructure and expertise.

This facility is used by organizations across Canada and internationally, particularly those operating in marine engineering, energy, transportation, and northern development. For businesses looking to de-risk innovation and validate performance in ice conditions, exploring the full details of this NRC capability can clarify how it fits into your development or commercialization plans.