In order for Natalie and her team to successfully drill the sea ice plug samples, they needed a core barrel. This core works similarly to an apple corer, plunging into the ice without any spin. This allows platelet ice layers to be captured along with the water that fills the gaps between the ice crystals, without the structure collapsing. Maintaining the platelet layers allows bacteria, algae and animals living between the platelets to be collected with their habitats. Therefore, the core barrel had to meet specific requirements to be light enough for the team to move, carry and maneuver to their sampling locations. As well as being strong enough and stiff enough to withstand the relentless bitter cold environment, and the fierce drilling process.