International Maritime Organization Research Articles

Optimal Allocation Model for Maritime Emergency Resource Considering the Spatial Correlation between Accident Hotspots

For effective maritime traffic emergency rescue (MTER) operations in the event of maritime traffic accidents (MTAs) and to improve rescue efficiency, it is necessary to analyze the MTER synergy problem and the cooperation between port states. First, the spatial information of accidents under the geographic information system data structure is clarified from the global integrated shipping information system of the International Maritime Organization, and the density-based spatial clustering of applications with noise algorithm is used to conduct hotspot mapping analysis of MTAs to establish the clustering and classification of accident characteristics in key areas. Second, the classification characteristics of accident samples are extracted based on spatial information, and the correlation attributes between MTA hotspots are analyzed. Furthermore, by introducing complex network measurement technology, a topological model of the MTER network is established considering the correlation of accident hotspots, and this model is combined with the sample data of MTAs in Southeast Asian waters from 1990 to 2022. Third, the MTER topological network model is quantitatively analyzed under the accident space of Southeast Asia, and the degree of correlation of traffic accidents in key areas is obtained to reveal the inevitable demand for MTER between regions. The results of the analysis show that there is a network correlation between inter-regional accident hotspots, and thus the degree of correlation between accident hotspots needs to be considered for MTER in key areas. Countries in densely connected regions would set up joint rescue exercises and consider rescue assistance between port country stakeholders, thus improving protection for accident emergency responses. The method of complex network topology based on spatial correlation between accident hotspots suggests a new approach for solving the MTER problem.

Report of the Special Rapporteur on the Implications for Human Rights of the Environmentally Sound Management and Disposal of Hazardous Substances and Wastes, Marcos Orellana, on His Visit to the International Maritime Organization, 14 July 2023

Report of the Special Rapporteur on the Implications for Human Rights of the Environmentally Sound Management and Disposal of Hazardous Substances and Wastes, Marcos Orellana, on His Visit to the International Maritime Organization, 14 July 2023

The Rise of Advanced VTS/VTMS Systems

he Vessel Traffic Management System (VTMS) is constantly evolving, driven by regulations, environmental concerns and technological innovation. Directives from authoritative organizations such as the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the International Association of Maritime Aids to Navigation and Lighthouse Management (IALA) emphasize the need for maritime safety. As we move into the future, VTMS will undoubtedly leverage artificial intelligence, automation, and machine learning, evolving from a reactive system to a predictive system. Exchanging the VTMS information among maritime users will significantly ensure safe operations and minimize environmental risks. As these systems evolve, the challenges of improving them become increasingly complex. A collaborative approach by combining expertise from different areas - users, consultants and manufacturers - forms a holistic strategy that leads to innovative and reliable solutions enriched by convergence of ideas, highlighting the effectiveness of a collaborative approach in navigating the complexities of technology improvements.

Optimizing Route and Speed under the Sulfur Emission Control Areas for a Cruise Liner: A New Strategy Considering Route Competitiveness and Low Carbon

In order to reduce pollution caused by ship emissions, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) implemented sulfur emission control areas (SECAs). In comparison to ordinary vessels, cruise ships with dual attributes of transportation and tourism generate a greater amount of marine pollution, which poses a significant threat to the marine environment in both berthing ports and the sailing area. In light of the fierce competition of the cruise tourism market, cruise lines are looking for strategies, such as designing more attractive cruise routes, to maintain their core competencies under the emission control policy. In order to achieve this goal, this paper presents a mixed-integer non-linear programming (MINP) model with two objectives and is derived from the traditional route optimization problem. The primary objective is to optimize the route and speed of a cruise liner, while simultaneously enhancing route competitiveness and minimizing carbon emissions both within and outside the SECAs. Subsequently, the multi-objective particle swarm optimization (MOPSO) algorithm was used to reach the objective, and simulations were carried out to verify the effectiveness of the model and method. The results show that speed and sailing route optimization can affect carbon emissions. This paper has a certain application value and guiding significance for cruise line decision makers that will be beneficial for the environment.

Investigation of a solid oxide fuel cell integrated into an internal combustion engine with carbon capture for maritime applications

The significance of limiting greenhouse gas emissions has grown in the maritime sector and regulations in this regard have become increasingly stringent. This leads to the need for new and more environmentally friendly power sources, and technologies to be used in ships. Fuel cells and carbon capture systems can enable ships to both meet the International Maritime Organization’s emissions regulations and contribute to a sustainable environment by reducing greenhouse gas emissions. In this study, the solid oxide fuel cell is electrochemically, and thermodynamically modeled and integrated into the internal combustion engine for maritime applications. Reformed natural gas is used as fuel, so the steam reforming and the carbon capture and storage systems are also integrated into the solid oxide fuel cell and internal combustion engine power system. Integrated systems are simulated and energy, exergy, economy, and environmental analyses are carried out. The effects of solid oxide fuel cell operating temperature, current density, operating time due to degradation, and the use of hydrogen instead of natural gas on analyses results are investigated. The findings obtained in this study showed that the proposed integration could reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 76.1 per cent, while the hydrogen-fuelled alternative system could reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 96.9 per cent at an operating lifetime of 35,000 h for the solid oxide fuel cell. Given the fuel cell degradation, the average overall energy efficiencies of the systems were 44.1 per cent and 57.5 per cent, respectively, while the cost of the proposed system was 41.1 per cent lower than the hydrogen-fuelled alternative. Hydrogen-fueled alternative system was closer to the net zero target in emission and had higher efficiencies, the proposed system might be a more effective solution in the transition to the net zero target because of its lower volume and mass requirements and lower costs.

SIMULATION-BASED LEARNING IN MARITIME TRAINING: ENHANCING COMPETENCY AND PREPAREDNESS

Simulation-Based Learning (SBL) is a pivotal component in maritime education, offering realistic and immersive experiences for cadets. This research critically evaluates SBL's efficacy among 30 cadets undergoing vocational practice or internships, aligning with International Maritime Organization (IMO) - Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping (STCW). Through qualitative analysis, SBL was found to significantly enhance cadets' competency, decision-making skills, and confidence in handling maritime challenges. Challenges such as technical issues and fidelity discrepancies were noted, underscoring the need for ongoing improvement. Furthermore, the study emphasizes the importance of aligning maritime education with international standards to ensure standardized and comprehensive training. The findings contribute to the discourse on SBL's role in maritime education, highlighting its potential to prepare cadets for real-world scenarios effectively.

CULTURAL AND LINGUISTIC CHALLENGES IN GLOBAL MARITIME EDUCATION (NAVIGATING ENGLISH USAGE)

This qualitative study investigates cultural and linguistic challenges faced by 45 junior cadets in global maritime education, focusing on English usage. Through interviews and focus group discussions, diverse English proficiency levels were identified among participants, highlighting the need for tailored language training programs. Communication challenges, particularly in understanding technical terminology and navigating cultural differences, emphasize the importance of targeted language instruction and cross-cultural training initiatives. Aligning with the International Maritime Organization's Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping (STCW), the study emphasizes the significance of linguistic competence and cultural awareness in ensuring safety and efficiency within maritime crews. The findings emphasize the importance of integrating language training initiatives into maritime education curriculum and fostering a culture of inclusivity and professionalism within the maritime industry.

EMPOWERING LITERACY IN MARITIME EDUCATION: STRATEGIES AND PROFESSIONALISM ALIGNMENT

This research investigates language instruction strategies and professionalism alignment within maritime education, focusing on 45 junior cadets. Through qualitative analysis, findings reveal varying language proficiency levels among cadets, with a predominant need for technical terminology mastery and communicative competence. Additionally, cadets emphasize the importance of practical learning experiences, such as shipboard training, and the integration of cross-cultural competence training. The research highlights the alignment between language instruction practices and international standards, notably the International Maritime Organization's (IMO) Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping (STCW) convention. Moreover, professionalism attributes, including safety awareness, ethical conduct, and leadership skills, are identified as integral components of maritime education. Recommendations include the integration of specialized language resources, continuous evaluation of instructional practices, and the promotion of ethical leadership. By addressing language instruction needs and professionalism requirements, maritime education institutions can enhance cadets' readiness for successful careers in the maritime industry.

A novel standalone hybrid renewable energy systems onboard conventional and autonomous tugboats

The recent surge in fuel costs and stringent gas emission regulations mandated by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) has prompted research into integrating renewable energy and energy management strategies (EMS) onboard ships. This study illustrates the computation, simulation, and optimization of a hybrid renewable energy system (HRES) to ensure continuous power supply for auxiliary loads and critical systems on both conventional and fully autonomous tugboats. The primary aim is to design an optimal HRES with minimal annualized cost of system (ACS) and a higher proportion of renewable energy while using an artificial bee colony (ABC) algorithm. Validation of optimization outcomes is conducted using particle swarm optimization (PSO), genetic algorithm (GA), and Hybrid Optimization of Multiple Energy Resources (HOMER) Pro. The HRES incorporates diesel generators (Gensets), photovoltaic (PV) arrays, vertical axis wind turbines (VAWT), and battery banks. The optimal HRES configuration for both conventional and fully autonomous tugboats is found to be Genset/PV/VAWT/Battery. We observe that the ABC algorithm exhibits superior convergence, reliability, cost-effectiveness, renewable energy fraction, and reduced carbon emissions compared to alternative algorithms. Results of robustness tests suggest that the shipload variation, fuel prices, temperature fluctuations, wind speed and solar irradiance along the navigation route have significant impact on the optimal HRES configuration. Ultimately, we conclude that the fully autonomous tugboat demonstrates superior performance in terms of costs, carbon dioxide emissions, and renewable energy fraction compared to its conventional counterpart.

IMPACT OF INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS ON MARITIME EDUCATION: PERSPECTIVES OF JUNIOR CADETS

This research explores the impact of international standards on maritime education through the perspectives of 45 junior cadets. Utilizing qualitative methods, including interviews and observations, the study investigates the alignment of educational programs with standards set by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW). Findings reveal a strong perception of alignment with international standards among participants, emphasizing the importance of consistency and global recognition in maritime education. Additionally, the analysis highlights the relevance of curriculum content to professional needs, the significance of continuous professional development, and the availability of opportunities for career advancement within educational institutions. The research contributes to discussions surrounding the optimization of maritime education and underscores the importance of lifelong learning and professionalism in preparing junior cadets for successful careers in the maritime industry.

Evaluating the safety of the redesigned shafting system following the propeller redesign aimed at enhancing CII and EEXI

In July 2023, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) set a target to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, introducing key measures such as the Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI), the Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index (EEXI), and the Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII). The maritime industry explored adaptations, including engine de-rating, energy-efficient technologies, and propeller modifications, and beyond. This study assessed the safety implication of a redesigned shafting system, resulting in a propeller redesign to enhance the CII and EEXI on a 6500 TEU container ship built in 2006. Through an analysis of annual output per TEU from 2000 to 2015, the study focused on container ships built from 2005 to 2007 with high-output engines (9.4–9.5 kW/TEU). After selecting a sample ship, the study determined engine power limits according to the EEXI regulations and assessed their impact on the CII. Subsequently, the study redesigned the shafting system, performing torsional vibration calculations and shaft alignment analyses to ensure the safety of the modified system. While an enhanced CII rating was predicted, the tightening CII regulations imply this benefit may be short-lived, lasting approximately two years. Thus, additional measures are essential to prolong the improved CII rating.

Is hydrogen a decarbonizing fuel for maritime shipping?

To meet the targets for carbon emissions as laid out by the Paris Agreement, the International Maritime Organisation has experimented with several technological, operational, and incentive-based methods. However, to date, a viable and reliable method or technology has eluded humankind in meeting the desired carbon emission standards of the shipping industry. Since LNG, so far considered as a potent decarbonizing candidate, has fallen short, efforts to experiment with hydrogen as an alternative candidate for decarbonization have found traction with researchers. Using desk-based qualitative research, the author aims to analyze the use of hydrogen in the shipping sector as a means of achieving decarbonization. In doing so, the future use of hydrogen as an alternative fuel for the shipping industry to achieve net-zero emission targets is examined, evaluated, and discussed. The study shows that, while hydrogen as a decarbonizing fuel in the shipping industry has high potential, its use as a zero-emission fuel is feasible only if either the technology of hydrogen production using renewables advances, or increased taxations and subsidies make the costs comparable to currently cheaper production methods using fossil fuels. Highlights IMO has committed decarbonisation of the shipping industry but has not been able to identify a fuel, process or technology to achieve this target Many fuel options have been experimented with but with limited success Hydrogen as a fuel offers high promise to achieve the committed target of IMO Hydrogen can be the desired decarbonising fuel if either technology for hydrogen production is refined or increased taxations and subsidies can help renewable energy to achieve cost comparison with fossil fuel energy

Risk assessment of achieving greenhouse gas emission reduction target in the maritime industry

To mitigate climate change, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) has mandated a 50% reduction in shipping-related greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 compared to 2018. While short-term measures are agreed, several barriers remain in achieving this emission reduction target. Existing research only focuses on specific scenarios and ignores comprehensive risks that influence the target realization. Hence, this study fills the research gap by identifying 28 potential risks and prioritizing the most threatening risks using the Political, Economic, Social, Technical, Legal, and Environmental framework. Furthermore, risk assessment on the target achievement is conducted to prioritize risk categories and risk factors via a combination of Evidential Reasoning and Rule-based Bayesian network. Finally, sensitivity analysis is performed to validate the results. The findings show that the categories, in the descending order of their importance, are economic, political, environmental, legal, social, and technological risk. In addition, the results reveal that “high low-carbon fuel prices” is the most pivotal risk under the economic category while notable political, environmental, legal, social, and technological risks are also recognized, each presenting distinct uncertainties in the decarbonization process. This study offers useful insights and strategic recommendations for stakeholders, aiding the transition to low-carbon maritime transportation.

Successful adoption of maritime environmental policy: The Mediterranean emission control area

Emission Control Areas (ECAs) are geographical locations designated by the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) to reduce the negative impacts of shipping on health and biodiversity. The first ECA was adopted in 2005 in the Baltic Sea and three more have followed. Since 2004, the 21 countries located around the Mediterranean Sea have discussed the introduction of an ECA, and the final adoption by the IMO occurred in 2022, 18 years later. In this paper, we apply Kingdon’s Multiple Streams policy framework to a case study of this successful project in order to identify the key success factors that may be generalised to the difficult process of international environmental policymaking in the maritime sector. The findings revealed that policy entrepreneurs were able to align the three streams by financing studies and workshops (problem stream), adopting an existing successful policy (policy stream) and leveraging an existing close political relationship in the EU (politics stream) as well as overcoming issues raised by other parties through further analysis and studies showing the benefit of the ECA policy for all Mediterranean countries (linking the problem and policy streams). The study also highlighted the importance of first achieving regional agreement before approaching the IMO global level, a lesson that may also be pertinent to other areas of maritime policy making.

Sea blindness in grey zone preparations

ABSTRACT Although grey zone and hybrid threats, such as cyberattacks, information campaigns, and sabotage against critical infrastructure, are becoming increasingly common in the contemporary world, relatively little attention has been directed to similar threats in the maritime environment. The recent global pandemic, Russian aggression against Ukraine, the Nord Stream sabotage in 2022, the sabotage of the Finnish-Baltic pipeline in 2023 in the Baltic Sea, as well as drone attacks on shipping in the Persian Gulf are but a few examples that illustrate the fragility of international maritime communications. The present article explores the topic of grey zone and hybrid threats within the maritime environment. Based on an analysis of recent security events, particularly hybrid threats in the maritime environment, the article proposes that it is essential to seek a broader role for naval forces in supporting national sovereignty and international law and order regarding the Open Seas. The article aims to conceptualize and explore the foundations of maritime grey zone threats and the new roles of naval forces operating within this new context, asking whether the UN, through the International Maritime Organization, NATO, and the European Union, suffer from “sea blindness” concerning how they are preparing for the new world order.

Analysis of Failure in The Fire System Alarm on The Ship KL.02 Sultan Hasanuddin

Abstract International Maritime Organization (IMO) has set regulations governing the installation of fire alarm systems on ships. The basic principle of the control system is to control the system output by comparing the actual output with the desired output. This study aims to determine the causes of false alarms on the fire alarm system on ships and to describe recommendations and solutions for failures in the fire alarm system on ships. This type of research uses a mix of methods by utilizing primary and secondary data. The data is processed by quantitative analysis and qualitative research. The results of this study indicate that the cause of the False Alarm on the Fire Alarm System is caused by the MFCA, Smoke Detector, and Cable Installation. The case that occurred in KL. 02 Sultan Hasanuddin there is no correlation between false alarms on the Fire Alarm System. The Smoke Detector correlation data with the False Alarm Fire Alarm System shows that there is a correlation with the Pearson Correlation of 0.857 > 0.4973.

Control system optimisation of biodiesel-based gas turbine for ship propulsion

<p>Reducing a gas emission of shipping transportations become a main goal of international maritime organization to achieve a clean energy. One of best scenarios to achieve this goal is to shift a fossil fuel to a renewable energy-based fuel of a ship propulsion. This paper studies an optimization of a control system of the renewable-based small gas turbine engine for the ship propulsion. Proposed control system consists of a proportional-integral with engine performance limiters to avoid an engine damage. Proportional-integral gains are tuned by a whale optimization algorithm. A gain scheduling analysis of a step response is performed to obtain a searching area of tuning parameters and values of constant gains. In this step, the gains are modeled as function of plant variables. After the searching area is obtained, the proportional-integral gains are optimized using the whale optimization algorithm while the additional gains are set as constant values. Using this scenario, stable and optimal gains have been successfully achieved. Results show that the proposed method has better performance than that of the previous methods, i.e. gain scheduling and gain scheduling optimized by the whale optimization algorithm. The proposed method has lowest fitness value and does not have an overshoot problem.</p>

Comprehensive Analysis of Maritime Cybersecurity Landscape Based on the NIST CSF v2.0

As technology advances and digitalization becomes more prevalent in the industry, the cyber threats to maritime systems and operations have significantly increased. The maritime sector relies heavily on interconnected networks, communication systems, and sophisticated technologies for its operations, making it an attractive target for cybercriminals, nation-states, and other threat actors. Safeguarding the maritime sector against cyber threats is crucial to ensuring the safety, integrity, and efficiency of maritime operations as well as for protecting sensitive information and global trade. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has played a significant role in addressing cybersecurity issues, leading to the implementation of regulations aimed at risk reduction. This paper delves into the realm of cybersecurity within the maritime industry, offering an in-depth analysis of its various aspects through an extensive literature review based on the latest Version 2.0 of the National Institute of Standards and Technology’s (NIST) Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) functional areas. The primary objective is to establish a connection between research and NIST’s functions and categories, thereby presenting a nascent perspective and identifying existing security research gaps. Through the adoption of this strategic approach, the present paper aims to cultivate a forward-looking and proactive state of maturity in anticipation of future developments within the maritime industry. The outcomes of this research can provide valuable reference points in academic discourse, potentially leading to new hypotheses, and fuel innovation in developing advanced cybersecurity measures within the maritime industry.

Weld Zone Analysis Based on FCAW Mechanical Characteristics and Heat Transfer Analysis of 316L Stainless Steel for Liquefied Hydrogen Tanks.

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) is currently rolling out more restrictive regulations in order to achieve net-zero GHG emissions by 2050. In response, the shipping industry is planning to pivot to green energy sources such as hydrogen fuel. However, since hydrogen has an extremely low boiling point (-253 °C), materials for storing liquid hydrogen must be highly resistant to low-temperature brittleness and hydrogen embrittlement. A 316L stainless steel is a typical material that meets these requirements, and various welds have been studied. In this study, 3 pass butt welding was performed by applying the FCAW (flux cored arc welding) process to 10 mm thick ASTM-A240M-316L stainless steel, with the size of the fusion zone and HAZ investigated by mechanical testing and heat transfer FE analysis according to process variables, such as heat input, welding speed, and the number of passes. In all cases, the yield and tensile strengths were about 10% and 3% higher than the base metal, respectively. Furthermore, heat transfer FE analysis showed an average error rate of 1.3% for penetration and 10.5% for width and confirmed the size of the HAZ, which experienced temperatures between 500 °C and 800 °C.

Evaluation of constraints for investment in NOx emission technologies: case study on Greek bulk carrier owners

PurposeThe maritime industry is the transport mode that contributes most to air pollution. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) identified the reduction of air pollution by ships as a crucial issue. Since 1 January 2020, ships have had to adopt strategies and new technologies to eliminate air pollution. However, ship compliance with nitrate oxide (NOx) emission restrictions is more challenging. This paper aims to identify shipowners' challenges in investing in new technologies.Design/methodology/approachThis paper applied a hybrid methodology combining a survey, a balanced scorecard and fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (F-AHP) to identify and evaluate constraints and weights in investment decision-making for NOx technologies. A survey was carried out to validate constraints.FindingsA survey was carried out, representing 5.1% of Greek-owned ships by deadweight capacity. The findings provide a weighted list of seven crucial technical and economic constraints faced by ship operators. The constraints vary from ship retrofit expenditure to crew training and waste management. Additionally, NOx emission technologies were compared. It was found that liquefied natural gas is the preferred investment option for the survey participants compared with selective catalytic reduction, exhaust gas recirculation and batteries.Originality/valueSeveral studies have dealt with the individual technical feasibility of NOx reduction technologies. However, apart from technical feasibility for a shipowner, the selection of a NOx technology has several managerial and safety risks. Therefore, the originality of this paper is to reveal those constraints that have a higher weight on shipowners. With this cost-benefit approach, investment challenges for ship operators are revealed. Policymakers can benefit from the results of the employed methodology.