Shipping Industry Research Articles

CFD studies into frictional effects of ship coatings to enhance condition monitoring & increase efficiency

Abstract Managing biofouling on ship hulls is essential for reducing CO2 emissions in the shipping industry. Biofouling, characterized by the accumulation of organisms on hulls, escalates surface roughness and hydrodynamic drag, subsequently increasing fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. In response, AkzoNobel, Royal Philips, and Damen Shipyards are developing a fouling prevention technology that utilizes Ultra Violet Light Emitting Diodes (UV-LEDs). The use of an array of multiple UV-LED tiles may lead to non-uniformities from gaps between tiles, potentially increasing frictional resistance due to variations in thickness and surface roughness at the tile joints. This study examines the impact of these non-uniformities on skin friction through simulations using the commercial Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) software, Star-CCM+. The analysis highlights effective jointing methods that minimize drag forces by optimizing gap-filling techniques, thus comparing favourably to traditional coatings. The findings contribute significantly to advancing a UV-C hull fouling prevention system, promising reduced environmental impacts and enhanced operational efficiency in the shipping industry.

BEYOND THE HORIZON: FUTURE TECHNOLOGIES TRANSFORMING MARITIME NAVIGATION

The shipping industry is constantly evolving to meet today's demands and challenges. This article explores how innovations and trends in shipping are influencing the efficiency, sustainability and competitiveness of this vital sector of the global economy. Analysing technological transformations and emerging practices, the paper reveals how new technologies and cross-company collaborations are shaping the future of the maritime industry. The example of the BYD Explorer fleet, the first Ro-Ro vessel specialised in transporting electric cars, underlines the adaptability and innovation in response to the current needs of the automotive industry and sustainability requirements. At the same time, the collaboration between MOL and Bearing, which has led to the development of advanced solutions based on artificial intelligence, demonstrates the positive impact of innovation in optimising maritime operations.

Navigating Uncertainty: Exploring Future Perspectives on Precarious Employment in the Shipping Industry

Questo articolo si concentra sulle dinamiche dell'occupazione precaria all'interno dell'industria marittima globale, esaminando i fattori storici e contemporanei che hanno portato allo stato attuale di vulnerabilità della forza lavoro. Analizzando le esperienze dei marinai provenienti da ruoli e contesti diversi, l'articolo esplora lo spostamento dell'industria verso pratiche di impiego flessibili, accentuato dalla strategia del "flagging out" e dall'aumento dei contratti temporanei. Viene discusso l'impatto della globalizzazione, della containerizzazione e del cambiamento dell'offerta di lavoro dei marinai, sottolineando la natura precaria della loro occupazione. Inoltre, l'articolo esamina l'evoluzione del pensiero all'interno dell'industria che per lungo tempo ha fatto affidamento su una "fornitura infinita" di marinai. Viene introdotto il concetto di potere strutturale come strumento per comprendere la posizione contrattuale dei marinai all'interno del sistema economico dell'industria marittima. Alla fine dell'articolo vengono avanzate diverse raccomandazioni per affrontare le pratiche attuali nell'industria marittima globale.

Sustainable Maritime Transport: A Review of Intelligent Shipping Technology and Green Port Construction Applications

With the global economy’s relentless growth and heightened environmental consciousness, sustainable maritime transport emerges as a pivotal development trajectory for the shipping sector. This study systematically analyzes 478 publications searched in the Web of Science Core Collection, from 2000 to 2023, utilizing bibliometric methods to investigate the application areas in sustainable development within the shipping industry. This study begins with an analysis of annual publication trends, which reveals a substantial expansion in research endeavors within this discipline over recent years. Subsequently, a comprehensive statistical evaluation of scholarly journals and a collaborative network assessment are conducted to pinpoint the foremost productive journals, nations, organizations, and individual researchers. Furthermore, a keyword co-occurrence methodology is applied to delineate the core research themes and emerging focal points within this domain, thereby outlining potential research directions for future research. In addition, drawing on the keyword co-occurrence analysis, the advancements in intelligent shipping technologies and green port construction applications within sustainable maritime transport are discussed. Finally, the review discusses the existing challenges and opportunities of sustainable maritime transport from a theoretical and practical perspective. The research shows that, in terms of intelligent shipping technology, data security and multi-source data are the focus that people need to pay attention to in the future; a trajectory prediction for different climates and different ship types is also an area for future research. In terms of green ports, Cold Ironing (CI) is one of the key points of the green port strategy, and how to drive stakeholders to build sustainable green ports efficiently and economically is the future developmental direction. This review serves to enhance researchers’ comprehension of the current landscape and progression trajectory of intelligent shipping technologies, thereby fostering the continued advancement and exploration in this vital domain.

Thermal equalization design for the battery energy storage system (BESS) of a fully electric ship

The adoption of fully electric ships represents a significant step forward in addressing the environmental challenges of climate change and pollution in the shipping industry. This research details the optimized design of a battery energy storage system (BESS) and its air-cooling thermal management system for a 2000-ton bulk cargo ship. In comparison to the conventional flow splitter (FS-I), which divides airflow into 8 transverse branches, two novel designs—FS-II (dividing airflow into 2, 4, and 8 branches) and FS-III (dividing into 2, 4, 8, and 16 longitudinal and transverse branches)—were introduced. FS-II improves flow uniformity from 0.42 (FS-I) to 0.86 but results in an increased pressure drop up to 881.47 Pa. FS-III further enhances flow uniformity to 0.97 while reducing pressure drop to 191.99 Pa. The thermal performance of battery boxes with FS-I, FS-II, and FS-III was evaluated under extreme conditions and a complete voyage cycle. FS-III exhibited superior thermal regulation, maintaining Tmax consistently below 33.9°C during the entire voyage. These findings provide valuable insights for designing thermal management systems in electric ships.

An investigation of ransomware incidents in the maritime industry: Exploring the key risk factors

Ransomware is a subset of malicious cyberattacks that aim to hold an organization’s data or critical infrastructure at ransom, compromising or blocking access. If the attack is public or made public after the initial attack, it can also severely jeopardize an organization’s reputation. Given the direct and immediate impact ransomware attacks can have and the lack of in-depth sharing, additional research is needed to analyze ransomware incidents in order to understand the underlying causes of incidents in addition to the detection and prevention methods. In this paper, 22 public ransomware incidents within the marine industry have been investigated to determine their causal factors and commonalities. To investigate causal factors, DEMATEL (Decision Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory) and a fuzzy set are used in order to enable an organization to better adhere to operational requirements and cyber risk management strategies to increase cyber resilience against ransomware incidents. The study’s findings highlight the fact that network layer cyber security mitigations, strategies for securely utilizing RDP (Remote Desktop Protocol) protocols, and investments in operating systems (OS) and software security are essential components of preventing future ransomware incidents. This study concludes by suggesting several suitable control and preventative measures to improve system safety.

Synthesis, Microstructural Investigation, and Mechanical Behavior of AA5083/Boron Nitride Nanocomposite

The as‐received aluminum alloy (AA5083) powders (44 μm) and hexagonal boron nitride (BN) nanoparticles (65–75 nm) are used to fabricate AA5083‐BN nanocomposites with varying BN content (0, 3, 6, 9, and 12 wt%). A powder metallurgy solid‐state method is employed, involving ball milling for 20 h at 100 rpm with a ball‐to‐powder mass ratio of 10:1. The processed powders are then consolidated through forging–sintering at 550 °C for 30 min, followed by hot forging at 225 MPa. The microstructure is examined using X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, energy‐dispersive X‐ray, transmission electron microscopy, and electron backscatter diffraction to understand the effect of processing variables. The compaction behavior is investigated both experimentally and empirically, revealing a relative green density exceeding 88% at 500 MPa. The empirical models display coefficients of determination (R2 values) exceeding 99% for predicting the compaction behavior. Compression tests on bulk samples show that BN reinforcement significantly enhances ultimate compressive strength, with values reaching 473.256 ± 5.54, 536.374 ± 2.87, 567.694 ± 4.22, and 601.911 ± 6.54 MPa for TRB‐3, TRB‐6, TRB‐9, and TRB‐12, respectively. The developed composites achieve relative densities greater than 97%, indicating promising applications in the aerospace, automotive, and marine industries.

Development of Natural Fiber Reinforced Polymer Matrix Composites: A Critical Review

AbstractFiber reinforced composites are made by reinforcing fibers in a polymeric matrix and shaping them to fit. Natural fibers, on the other hand, such as jute sisal, hemp, flax etc. are increasingly commonly utilized as reinforcements and perform similarly to artificial fibers. Man‐made fibers like as carbon, glass, and kevlar are utilized as reinforcements in the start and have shown to be the best in terms of characteristics, reinforcing capacity, and usefulness. Research investigations also show that when man‐made and natural reinforcements are combined in a hybrid form, the composite characteristics increase significantly. The composite material obtains all of the better qualities of individual fibers as a result of this combination, and when the composite is subjected to varying loads, each fiber gives its own maximal resistance. The chemical and physical properties are further enhanced by including particular reinforcements into polymer matrix composites, which provide whole new features (which has transformed the aerospace, marine, defence, and automobile industry). As a result, the composite would be better in all attributes. The current study provides a thorough examination of the different challenges concerning the synthesis and mechanical characterization of natural fiber reinforces hybrid polymer composites. Future difficulties, as well as areas of use for polymer matrix composites, have been investigated that may aid in the elimination of plastic waste and the reduction of environmental pollution.

Electrochemical exfoliation of graphene nanosheets and development of a novel efficient Ni-CeO2-Gr ternary nanocomposite coatings for dual functional anti-corrosion and wear-resistance

Nickel-based coatings offer excellent corrosion, wear resistance, and mechanical strength, and can be further improved with additives, making them ideal for harsh environments like marine and chemical industries. In the present study, graphene (Gr) nanosheets were synthesized via electrochemical exfoliation and a novel Ni-CeO2-Gr nanocomposite coating was prepared by an electrochemical co-electrodeposition technique on a Cu substrate in a traditional Watts bath. The coatings (pure Ni, Ni-Gr, Ni-CeO2 and the ternary Ni-CeO2-Gr) were characterized using optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) coupled with energy-dispersive spectrometry (EDS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, Vickers microhardness and micro-scratch tests. The electrochemical properties of the coatings were evaluated by electrochemical impedance (EIS) and DC-polarization measurements in 0.5 M NaCl. SEM-EDS, Raman, and XRD analysis confirmed the successful synthesis of high-quality graphene and the incorporation of CeO2 nanoparticles and graphene nanosheets into the nickel coating matrix. It was found that the ternary Ni-CeO2-Gr coating exhibited a high microhardness (915.6 HV), improved cohesive strength and enhanced corrosion resistance (544 KΩ.cm−2) compared to pure Ni coatings (30 KΩ.cm−2) due to the synergistic effect of the graphene and CeO2 duplex layer within the Ni matrix, forming a robust anticorrosion barrier. These findings offer valuable insights into the designing highly efficient materials for corrosion protection.

Semi-analytical formulation to predict the vibroacoustic response of a fluid-loaded plate with ABH stiffeners

Stiffened structures are widely used in aeronautics, marine and rail industries. When stiffeners are integrated into host structures, so-called Bloch-Floquet waves are generated due to interactions between the host’s flexural waves and the stiffeners’ flexural and torsional waves. It is reported in the literature that these waves are often the source of undesirable noise and vibrations when the stiffened structure is excited by a force. To mitigate unwanted noise and vibrations from the stiffened structures, this study proposes to replace common rectangular stiffeners with acoustic black hole (ABH) stiffeners. To do this, a semi-analytical model is initially developed in the wavenumber domain to predict the forced vibroacoustic response of a 2D fluid-loaded infinite plate with stiffeners on one side. In the proposed model, the stiffeners are characterised by their translational and rotational dynamic stiffnesses which can be estimated by a finite element method (FEM). These dynamic stiffnesses are then coupled with the analytical formulation of the fluid-loaded plate to obtain the expressions of the spectral displacement and radiated pressure. Comparisons of the results in terms of the plate’s mean quadratic velocity and radiated sound power for the rectangular and ABH stiffeners show that by using the ABH stiffeners instead of the conventional stiffeners, one can significantly reduce the vibroacoustic response of light/heavy fluid-loaded plates.

Diffusion mechanisms and corrosion resistance of nanostructured ZrN-Cu coating obtained by hybrid HiPIMS-DCMS

Globalisation has brought numerous benefits regarding the cost-effective transportation of goods. Still, the shipping industry faces challenges such as corrosion, biofouling, and restrictions on heavy pollutant products used in paintings. This study proposes a solution using a multifunctional coating based on zirconium nitride and copper nano-structured coating, applying high-power impulse and direct current magnetron sputtering processes (i.e., HiPIMS and DCMS, respectively). The coating’s morphological, structural, and chemical features were analysed using advanced characterisation techniques (SEM, EDX, STEM, SAED and EELS). Potentiodynamic polarisation (PP) and Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS − up to 30 days) were employed to study the corrosion resistance in saline solution (3.5 wt% NaCl). Besides, activated ZrN-Cu exhibited a corrosion rate decrease from ∼ 354 x 10−4 to 52 x 10−4 mm/yr when compared to its inactivated counterpart. Besides, a ∼ 3.5-fold impedance increasing was exhibited by activated ZrN-Cu after 30 days of exposure to saline solution, meaning an increase in corrosion resistance compared to the non-activated ZrN-Cu. SEM micrographs revealed that the copper diffusion in ZrN-Cu can be provoked by a strong oxidising agent (NaOCl) or by an electrical potential. Based on the chartered evidence, a diffusion mechanism is proposed for the biocidal release (Cu) in the obtained ZrN-Cu films. The present study depicts a solution that offers a controlled biocide release and corrosion resistance, opening the possibility of its application in the maritime industry.

Evaluating eco-economic benefits of anchoring and drifting under government sulfur emission policies

Driven by global sulphur strategy, reducing sulfur emissions from the global shipping industry is of great significance for achieving sustainable development goals related to addressing climate change. This study explores the impact of government sulfur emission policies on the choice of mooring modes, include anchoring and drifting, for shipping lines. In this study, a bi-level programming model is constructed and linearized to minimize the total vessel emissions in emission control areas during the planning horizon and the total cost of each type of vessel. The leader of this model is the department that issues regulations and decides on the anchorage to regulate whether marine gas oil must be used. The followers are the shipping lines that execute transportation tasks and choose whether a vessel will anchor or drift. In addition, many numerical experiments and sensitivity analysis are conducted, and data and theoretical support for relevant decision-making are provided.

A ferry route in the Skagerrak optimised via VISIR-2

Abstract Urgent measures are needed for the shipping industry to contribute proportionately to climate change mitigation. To date, the potential of weather routing has not been reproducibly assessed, especially for short sea shipping. We employ the open-source VISIR-2 model on a ferry passage in the Skagerrak (the strait among Norway, Sweden, and Denmark), considering both sea currents and waves. By computing 5,840 least-CO2 optimal routes for 2023, we find promising results, particularly for voyages from Denmark. The savings follow a bi-exponential distribution, with over 10% CO2 emissions savings achievable on about ten days per year. Specifically, the Norwegian coastal current can be harnessed to enhance speed over ground and reduce overall emissions. The vessel performance curve needs to be tailored to specific ships in service, and the optimisation algorithm should be developed to enable just-in-time arrivals.

MXene and cellulose nanofibers reinforced hydrogel with high strength and photothermal self-healing performances for marine antifouling

Biological fouling is a considerable threat to the marine industry because attached microcontaminants and microorganisms inflict serious damage on marine installations and aquacultures. Although there has been tremendous effort in researching marine antifouling, it is yet challenging to develop a long-term and consistent antifouling strategy and materials. Here, polyhexamethylene-biguanide (PHMB) and MXene are introduced into the carboxylated cellulose nanofibers (CNF) reinforced polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) hydrogel to obtain a self-healing and ultra-high toughness antifouling hydrogel. The as-prepared double network (DN) hydrogels have extremely high toughness (16,050 kJ/m3), superior anti-protein adhesion (100 %) and anti-algal adhesion (100 %), exceptional antibacterial activity (99.97 %), and remarkable photothermal self-healing capability. Furthermore, the DN hydrogel provide outstanding antifouling performance for at least six months in the actual marine field. This work provides an effective and feasible strategy to prevent marine biofouling and also initiates new approaches to the application of hydrogel.

Comparative Analysis of Sustainable Seafarers’ Employment and Welfare Systems in South Korea and China: Contemporary Issues and Improvements

Seafarers are recognized as essential workers responsible for maintaining the national logistics supply chain. This study analyzes the sustainable seafarers’ employment and welfare systems in South Korea and China using the comparative case study approach and presents relevant implications. In the era of the “New Normal” after the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, which is marked by hyper-personalization, seafarers have become increasingly resistant to acquiring maritime education and performing onboard duties. Even though South Korea has recognized seafarers as key agents of national economic growth, the participation of the new generation in the shipping industry has recently been declining. Meanwhile, China has been developing its shipping industry since the Deng Xiaoping reforms and fosters skilled seafarers by providing rigorous maritime education. However, both countries have been experiencing difficulties in ensuring the legal and social protection of seafarers; hence, the challenge of providing sustainable employment and welfare to seafarers remains. In conclusion, this study proposes the establishment of the “Asia Maritime Education, Employment, and Welfare Support Center” to support seafarers’ employment and welfare with the cooperation of other countries in the Asian region.

머신러닝을 활용한 해운기업 파산 예측에 관한 연구

Purpose: This study aims to enhance bankruptcy prediction accuracy in the shipping industry by using advanced machine learning models, specifically XGBoost and LSTM, comparing the predictive factors between large enterprises and SMEs. Research design, data, and methodology: Utilizing financial data from 2001 to 2023 for the Korean shipping industry, the study analyzes key financial ratios and macroeconomic indicators. XGBoost and LSTM models are employed to develop customized bankruptcy prediction models for large enterprises and SMEs. Results: The XGBoost model outperforms others, effectively handling complex financial and macroeconomic variables. Large enterprises are more influenced by internal financial factors, while SMEs are sensitive to external economic conditions like a shipping index. Conclusions: The study highlights the need for tailored prediction models to improve bankruptcy risk management in the shipping industry, especially focusing on the size of the company. Future research should explore model applicability across different regions, and should consider integrating real-time data for enhanced accuracy.

Analyzing the Blue Economy Potential of Pakistan’s Maritime Sector

The maritime economy is an important contributor to the economies of the countries. Pakistan, with more than 1000 km of coast, has a huge repository of sea resources and is located on a very important trade route. Its geo-sectoral location provides easy and short sea access to China, Afghanistan, and the Central Asian Republics. However, the continuous neglect of the maritime sector has resulted in the depletion of the sector, which was once thriving at a rapid pace. The lack of awareness of the maritime economy, depleting infrastructure, untrained human resources, and lack of effective policies are the contributing factors that have prevented the full potential of this sector from being exploited so far. The development of ports, the shipping industry, fisheries, and coastal tourism are the areas that can significantly contribute to the GDP of the country and provide livelihood to people. There is a dire need for the government to pay full attention to this sector and start investing in this ignored area for its revival, ultimately enabling it to contribute significantly to the economic development of the country.

DETERMINATION THERMAL AND MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF NANO CARBON, GRAPHITE AND GRAPHENE REINFORCED RECYCLING POLYPROPYLENE COMPOSITE SAMPLES

Polymer-based plastic materials occupy a major place in daily life. However, due to the nature of polymer materials, low thermal resistance and mechanical properties of these products, the need for new and sustainable materials in the industry has increased. With the rapid technological developments in advanced manufacturing industries such as aviation, marine, motor sports and defence industry, lightweight and high-strength composite products have become even more important. In this context, in this study, 1% carbon, graphene and graphite particle reinforced Polypropylene (PP) composite material mixed in a twin-screw extruder and MA/G series injection moulding machine standard tensile test sample produced. Melt Flow Index (MFI), Heat Deformation Test (HDT), tensile test, Shore-D hardness measurement and density tests performed on these test samples. According to the results obtained from these tests, the mechanical and thermal properties of the test samples produced from different composite materials were determined. The best mechanical and thermal properties occurred in the graphene particle. It formed in graphite and carbon, respectively.

Design and Testing of a Multi-Cylinder Piezopump for Hydraulic Actuation

Hydraulic actuation systems are widely used in industries such as aerospace, the marine industry, off-highway vehicles, and manufacturing. There has been a shift from the hydraulic distribution of power from a centralized supply to electrical power distribution, to reduce the maintenance requirements and weight and improve the efficiency. However, hydraulic actuators have many advantages, such as power density, durability, and controllability, so the ability to convert electrical to hydraulic power locally to drive an actuator is important. Traditional hydraulic pumps are inefficient and unsuitable for low-power applications, making piezopumps a promising alternative for the conversion of electrical to hydraulic power in the sub-100 W range. Currently, the use of piezopumps is limited by their maximum power (typically a few watts or less) and low flows. This paper details the design, simulation, and testing of a multi-cylinder piezopump designed to push the envelope of the power output. The simulation results demonstrate that pumps with two or three cylinders show increasing benefits in terms of hydraulic and electrical performance due to the reduced flow and current ripple compared to a single-cylinder pump. The experimental results from a two-cylinder pump confirm this, and the effect of the phase relationship between the drive signals is investigated in detail. The experimental pump has fast-acting disc-style reed non-return valves, allowing piezostack drive frequencies of up to 1.4 kHz to be used. Custom power electronics tailored to the pump are developed. These features are critical in demonstrating the potential for multi-cylinder piezopumps to play an important role as a future actuation solution.

Experimental Evaluation of Geometric and Environmental Effects on Mechanically Fastened Non-Crimp Fabric Composites.

Corresponding to marine environmental regulations is important in shipbuilding and marine industries. The application of lightweight composite materials on ships is an effective approach to reducing the emission of greenhouse gases. The mechanical fastening method is a good candidate to assemble composites and conventional metals. The joint geometric and environmental effects are two important factors in mechanically fastened ship and marine structures. In this study, we evaluated the W/D (hole diameter to width ratio) and environmental effects on the bearing strength and failure mode of a mechanically fastened non-crimp fabric (NCF) composite material. To consider the effect of joint geometry, wherein hole diameters of 5, 6, 8, and 10 mm were machined. Further, by selecting three environmental conditions (UV, saltwater and low temperature), we evaluated environmental effects on bearing strength and failure modes of NCF composite specimens. The bearing strength increased as W/D decreased, and the bearing strength of the specimen exposed to low temperature and UV environments increased, while that of the specimen exposed to saltwater remained the same. From the failure mode analysis, the specimen that was exposed to salt fog showed the same failure mode as the unaged specimen. It was observed that the changes in the transition section and new failure mode in the xenon arc and low-temperature specimens.