  An experimental model of transmission of ocean waves by an ice floe is
presented. Thin plastic plates with different material properties and
thicknesses are used to model the floe. Regular incident waves with different
periods and steepnesses are used, ranging from gently-sloping to storm-like
conditions. A wave gauge is used to measure the water surface elevation in the
lee of the floe. The depth of wave overwash on the floe is measured by a gauge
in the centre of the floe's upper surface. Results show transmitted waves are
regular for gently-sloping incident waves but irregular for storm-like incident
waves. The proportion of the incident wave transmitted is shown to decrease as
incident wave steepness increases, and to be at its minimum for an incident
wavelength equal to the floe length. Further, a trend is noted for transmission
to decrease as the mean wave height in the overwash region increases.
