Review and prospects on research methods of strength failure for shipped bulk granular cargoes

Abstract

Bulk granular cargoes would encounter strength failure during sea transportation, and serious accidents may happen. Limiting their moisture content is the most widely utilized preventative measure. However, using this method is not enough for their sea transportation safety. It is essential to have an in-depth comprehension of their mechanism to encourage the development of crucial technologies and devices. The application of theoretical, experimental and numerical methods to study strength failure mechanism in bulk granular cargoes is reviewed. The mechanism from macroscopic, mesoscopic, and microscopic perspectives are then summarized. Based on the present studies, however the macroscopic and microscopic interactions between particles and water during strength failure remain unclear. Microscopic alterations in cargo structure and water-air development remain unknown. As a result, the techniques that could be used to investigate cargo particle movement and moisture migration are advised. So the macroscopic and microscopic relationship could be established. Further, the direct ship stability assessment model of the sea conditions-cargo-ship coupled motion could also be established. The effects between wave loads, cargo wet granular structure and water migration could be understood more deeply. A more accurate transport scheme for bulk granular cargoes can be developed to ensure the safety of their sea transport.