This is the only large-scale test tank in Japan capable of conducting experiments with actual heavy oil on seawater. STORMS can simulate various sea conditions such as current, wave, wind and water temperature which may affect the efficiency of oil spill response under actual sea conditions. Using this facility, PARI conducts intensive research and development for advancing oil spill response technologies.

* This water tank is 32 m long x 13 m wide x 3.5 m high. The wave height can be adjusted up to 0.5 m, the cycle from 1 to 5 seconds, the flow speed up to 1 m/s, and the water temperature from about 5 to 30 degrees Celsius.