Strategische Agenda 2022-2025

10 Test facilities and laboratories We have unique physical facilities at our disposal such as the Delta Flume, the iD-Lab and laboratories in Utrecht (Castel) and Delft. We also see field and monitoring activities as physical facilities because they deliver essential data. This year, we are completing the construction and testing activities for the new GeoCentrifuge. So we will soon be able to conduct the latest geotechnical trials with this facility. Our facilities are an essential part of our unique mix of research resources and they make unique contributions to our research. The quality of our facilities is high thanks to the annual investments we make. They play an important role in knowledge development and the validation of numerical models. Research in the facilities is enormously important: it can produce savings of many millions. For example, with the trials in our Delta Flume, we were able to demonstrate that asphalt and grass revetments on dikes, for example in the case of the Lauwersmeer dike, are stronger than previously thought. That meant that an expensive upgrade operation for the dike was no longer needed. In our field laboratories, we can execute accurate measurements and monitoring on site but also take the required action. An example is research into bioremediation, a remediation method for contaminated soil and groundwater systems. Working with private companies at dozens of locations, Deltares applies this efficient and sustainable solution involving the use of microorganisms to break down pollutants and accelerate natural degradation processes. The Deltares research facilities contribute to innovation, generate knowledge and have national and international appeal for public and private funding. They play an important role in the Dutch and European knowledge infrastructure in the field of water and the subsurface. They are, for example, listed on the National Roadmap for Large-Scale Scientific Infrastructure (GWI) and on the European ESFRI roadmap. These facilities are unique in the world and they play a role in helping Deltares to recruit national and international top talent. Chapter 1 Deltares now