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Sailing cargo ships can benefit from new aerodynamic tech

Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have developed a unique method to reduce ship aerodynamic drag, which could lead to significant energy efficiency gains and reduced fuel consumption. The method uses the Coanda effect to create a more efficient airflow around the ship's superstructure, reducing drag by 7.5%.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalPhysics of Fluids·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 4, 2023

Pusan National University researchers build a numerical algorithm to study continuous ice-breaking

Researchers at Pusan National University have created a new algorithm that can accurately predict ice resistance and fracture points for ships navigating through the Arctic shipping routes. The model uses an elastic material approach, allowing it to study continuous ice-breaking processes, which is essential for efficient navigation.

SourcePusan National University·JournalOcean Engineering·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 30, 2023

New research reveals shifting identities of global fishing fleet to help bolster fisheries management

A new study used satellite data and public registry information to track the changing identities of commercial fishing vessels, revealing that nearly 20% of high seas fishing is carried out by unregulated or unauthorized vessels. The study found hotspots of potential IUU fishing in the Southwest Atlantic Ocean and western Indian Ocean.

SourceGlobal Fishing Watch·JournalScience Advances·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 18, 2023

New analysis maps out impacts of marine chokepoint closures

A new study by Lincoln F. Pratson at Duke University uses GIS data and international trade simulations to estimate the types and amounts of disrupted trade if a chokepoint is closed, including increased shipping times and costs. The analysis highlights the importance of marine chokepoints in global economic security.

SourceDuke University·JournalCommunications in Transportation Research·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 22, 2022

Container ship accidents are a little understood but emerging threat to marine ecosystems, a new Concordia study shows

A new Concordia study reveals that container ship accidents are a growing concern, with significant shortcomings in maritime cargo safeguards. The researchers found that existing regulations are inadequate, and the lack of data makes it difficult to adopt new regulations.

SourceConcordia University·JournalJournal of Cleaner Production·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 16, 2022

New satellite imagery first to identify endangered Gulf of St. Lawrence North Atlantic right whale from space

A new type of satellite imagery with a spatial resolution of 15 cm has been used to detect and monitor critically endangered North Atlantic right whales. The technology allows for the identification of individual whales and their habitats, which will have significant implications for conservation efforts.

SourceUniversity of Ottawa·JournalMarine Mammal Science·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 13, 2022

Strain-sensing smart skin ready to deploy

The new system, S4, offers a high-resolution view of stressed specimens comparable to or better than established technologies like DIC. It also overcomes optical challenges posed by cement in concrete, providing a reliable strain measurement technology.

SourceRice University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 14, 2022

Melting Arctic ice could transform international shipping routes, study finds

Climate change is causing rapid warming in the Arctic Ocean, which may lead to shorter, more eco-friendly maritime trade routes. This could reduce the shipping industry's carbon footprint and weaken Russia's control over trade routes through the Arctic. New trade routes could also increase global shipping infrastructure resilience.

SourceBrown University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 20, 2022

Historic graffiti made by soldiers sheds light on Africa maritime heritage, study shows

Researchers at University of Exeter discovered engravings in Tanzania's Zanzibar archipelago made by soldiers on guard duty, revealing ships that sailed on the western Indian Ocean during the 19th century. The graffiti depict various vessel types, including European-style frigates and settee-rigged ocean-going vessels, providing valuab...

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalAzania Archaeological Research in Africa·TypeObservational study·DateMay 6, 2022

Wireless self-powered ammonia leakage monitor system developed for ammonia-energy ships

Researchers have developed a full-set wireless self-powered ammonia leakage monitor system for ammonia-energy ships, which includes a honeycomb triboelectric nanogenerator-based power generation system and a carbon nanotube doped polypyrrole-based ammonia detection system. The system exhibited good performance with low detection limits...

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalNano Energy·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMay 6, 2022

Korea Maritime & Ocean University researchers champion LPG as a green alternative ship fuel

Researchers from Korea Maritime & Ocean University found that using LPG as a marine fuel can reduce annual fuel consumption by 7.5-10.4%, fuel cost by 8.8-25.9%, and carbon dioxide emissions by 10-14%. The study also highlights the potential for promoting LPG as an eco-friendly alternative to traditional fuels.

SourceNational Korea Maritime and Ocean University·JournalJournal of Cleaner Production·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJan 11, 2022

Invasive species ‘hitchhiking’ on tourist and research ships threaten Antarctica’s unique ecosystems

New research reveals that invasive species can arrive in Antarctic waters from almost anywhere across the globe via biofouling on ships' hulls. Fishing, tourism, research, and supply ships expose Antarctica to non-native species threatening its pristine environment.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 10, 2022

Suiting up with Al-Mg-Si: New protective coating for steel to resist corrosion in ships and marine and coastal facilities and structures

Scientists have created a new protective coating using Al-Mg-Si alloy to resist corrosion in ships and marine facilities. The coating demonstrates improved corrosion resistance through a 'shielding effect', increasing the economic life of steel machinery.

SourceNational Korea Maritime and Ocean University·JournalCorrosion Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 5, 2022

New energy systems could cause a sea change in energy efficiency during shipping

Researchers have created two novel heat recovery systems for LNG ships, boosting energy efficiency by up to 25%. The systems use the organic Rankine cycle (ORC) to recover heat from engine exhaust gas, with substantial improvements in performance depending on fluid combinations.

SourceNational Korea Maritime and Ocean University·JournalEnergy Conversion and Management·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 4, 2021

Researchers use new x-ray technique to conserve Henry VIII’s favorite warship

A multidisciplinary team of researchers used a new X-ray technique to discover zinc-containing nanoparticles lodged within the wooden hull of the Mary Rose, leading to its deterioration. The nanoparticles, likely from anaerobic bacteria, have been found in conjunction with polymer deposits that were added to preserve the ship's remains.