During World War II the British and Americans were developing plans for the HMS Habbakuk, a giant ship made of Pykrete. Pykrete is basically ice with wood pulp mixed in, resulting in a much higher strength and resistance to melting than conventional ice. Check out these two articles for more historical information and background, including some technical specs. Initially I was skeptical of the idea, but upon reading the different articles it seems feasible, especially in the economic and military context of the time. I’m surprised that I’ve never heard of it mentioned as a construction material for Arctic climates, though, as it seems to be ideal for that application…
