Journal Description
Journal of Marine Science and Engineering
Journal of Marine Science and Engineering
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal on marine science and engineering, published monthly online by MDPI. The Australia New Zealand Marine Biotechnology Society (ANZMBS) is affiliated with JMSE and their members receive discounts on the article processing charges.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed with Scopus, SCIE (Web of Science), Ei Compendex, GeoRef, Inspec, AGRIS, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q1 (Engineering, Marine) / CiteScore - Q2 (Civil and Structural Engineering)
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 16.4 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.6 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2024).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
Impact Factor:
2.7 (2023);
5-Year Impact Factor:
2.8 (2023)
Latest Articles
Investigation and Analysis of Anchor Status of Small Coastal Fishing Vessels for Response to Submarine-Cable Risk Factors
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2025, 13(5), 984; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse13050984 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2025
Abstract
This study investigated the status of anchors for small fishing vessels that correspond with the risk factors of submarine cables, which are essential elements for offshore wind farms. As for target vessels, small coastal fishing vessels of less than ten tons were divided
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This study investigated the status of anchors for small fishing vessels that correspond with the risk factors of submarine cables, which are essential elements for offshore wind farms. As for target vessels, small coastal fishing vessels of less than ten tons were divided into four categories by tonnage, and 71 locations were compared from a total of 59 fishing vessels. In the results, the shank showed a difference of approximately 18.2% from 119.3 to 145.8 cm on average, while the stock exhibited a difference of approximately 18.9% from 130.3 to 160.6 cm. The size of the anchor, however, was not proportional to the increase in the tonnage of the fishing vessel, and the anchors were produced in their own forms, based on the experience of the crew in many cases. In the statistical processing results, significant differences occurred in all areas except for the fluke. The stock and shank, which affect the dragging anchor, showed significant differences at a level of p < 0.05 while the bill, bill to bill, and bill to shank exhibited differences at a level of p < 0.01. This indicates that standardized criteria are required for the anchors of small coastal fishing vessels of less than ten tons, and that design standards for materials and reinforcements also need to be prepared as thin rebars or wooden columns are used, in addition to steel pipes, as the materials of the stock in many cases.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Application of Concrete Materials in Coastal Port Engineering)
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Open AccessArticle
Joint Allocation of Shared Yard Space and Internal Trucks in Sea–Rail Intermodal Container Terminals
by
Xiaohan Wang, Zhihong Jin and Jia Luo
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2025, 13(5), 983; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse13050983 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2025
Abstract
The sea–rail intermodal container terminal serves as a key transportation hub for green logistics, where efficient resource coordination directly enhances multimodal connectivity and operational synergy. To address limited storage capacity and trans-shipment inefficiencies, this study innovatively proposes a resource-sharing strategy between the seaport
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The sea–rail intermodal container terminal serves as a key transportation hub for green logistics, where efficient resource coordination directly enhances multimodal connectivity and operational synergy. To address limited storage capacity and trans-shipment inefficiencies, this study innovatively proposes a resource-sharing strategy between the seaport and the railway container terminal, focusing on the joint allocation of yard space and internal trucks. For indirect trans-shipment operations between ships, the port, the railway container terminal, and trains, a mixed-integer programming model is formulated with the objective of minimizing the container trans-shipment cost and the weighted turnaround time of ships and trains. This model simultaneously determines yard allocation, container transfers, and truck allocation. A two-layer hybrid heuristic algorithm incorporating adaptive Particle Swarm Optimization and Greedy Rules is designed. Numerical experiments verify the model and algorithm performance, revealing that the proposed method achieves an optimality gap of only 1.82% compared to CPLEX in small-scale instances while outperforming benchmark algorithms in solution quality. And the shared yard strategy enhances ship and train turnaround efficiency by an average of 33.45% over traditional storage form. Sensitivity analysis considering multiple realistic factors further confirms the robustness and generalizability. This study provides a theoretical foundation for sustainable port–railway collaboration development.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Ocean Engineering)
Open AccessArticle
Analysis of Damage to Shipping Container Sides During Port Handling Operations
by
Sergej Jakovlev, Tomas Eglynas, Valdas Jankunas, Mindaugas Jusis and Miroslav Voznak
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2025, 13(5), 982; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse13050982 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2025
Abstract
The damage to shipping containers during port handling operations continues to pose a significant challenge that adversely affects operational efficiency, equipment integrity, and supply chain accountability. This study utilises real-world measurement data gathered through accelerometers to examine the occurrence and dynamics of physical
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The damage to shipping containers during port handling operations continues to pose a significant challenge that adversely affects operational efficiency, equipment integrity, and supply chain accountability. This study utilises real-world measurement data gathered through accelerometers to examine the occurrence and dynamics of physical impacts, particularly side and rear collisions, during the handling of containers at Klaipėda City Port. The research prioritises two critical scenarios: side impacts during stacking operations with reach stackers and rear impacts during trailer loading procedures. Impact events are meticulously recorded and analysed to ascertain the magnitudes of acceleration across multiple axes. This reveals that side impacts produce significantly greater forces, particularly in the lateral direction, than rear impacts. This study employs sensor-based monitoring, advanced data visualisation techniques, and structured scenario analysis to delineate the variability and intensity of mechanical interactions during these operations. The findings emphasise the structural stress that containers experience and underscore the importance of embedded monitoring technologies for real-time event detection and damage prevention. The results contribute to the expanding body of knowledge that supports the digital transformation of container terminals and furnish actionable insights for enhancing handling protocols, informing insurance assessments, and improving safety measures within both automated and conventional port environments.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Maritime Transport and Port Management)
Open AccessArticle
The Prediction of the Valve Opening Required for Slugging Control in Offshore Pipeline Risers Based on Empirical Closures and Valve Characteristics
by
Jiqiang Fu, Quanhong Wu, Jie Sun, Hanxuan Wang and Suifeng Zou
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2025, 13(5), 981; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse13050981 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2025
Abstract
Topside choking is a common way to eliminate severe slugging flow in pipeline riser systems in offshore oil and gas fields. However, a lack of fundamentals in two-phase flow gives rise to difficulty in the model selection of valves and the effective control
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Topside choking is a common way to eliminate severe slugging flow in pipeline riser systems in offshore oil and gas fields. However, a lack of fundamentals in two-phase flow gives rise to difficulty in the model selection of valves and the effective control of the valves. In this study, the prediction of the valve opening required for slugging control based on measurable parameters is investigated experimentally and theoretically. It is found that the resistance coefficient factor of the valve is almost the same for pipeline risers and simple vertical pipes when severe slugging is eliminated. Therefore, fluid parameters can be approximated by the conditions of a simple vertical pipe. The target of control is to achieve dual-frequency fluctuation, and it is quantitatively converted to the pressure drop of the valve. Based on these two empirical enclosures, the valve opening can be worked out by using the gas fraction model and the theoretical model of valve flow resistance. The non-slip model is found to be better than the drift-flux model in the final prediction of the optimal valve opening. An explicit model for the calculation of the optimal resistance factor and the corresponding valve opening is established, making it more convenient to select the valve in the design stage of offshore oil and gas exploitation. The average absolute error of the proposed model is +0.01%, which is smaller than the simulation performed by OLGA 7.0 software (+4.91% before tuning and +0.08% after tuning). A field case with a flexible S-shape riser proves the good applicability of the model (with a deviation smaller than ±2%). The applications of the prediction model in the model selection of the valve and uncertain factors in the operation are also discussed.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Research in Flexible Riser and Pipelines)
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Open AccessArticle
A Proposal for Alternative Navigation Routes Following the Development of Offshore Wind Farms in the Waters of the Republic of Korea
by
Sung-Wook Ohn and Ho Namgung
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2025, 13(5), 980; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse13050980 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2025
Abstract
In the future, electricity generation through eco-friendly renewable energy will accelerate. Surrounded by sea on three sides, the Republic of Korea is gaining attention for offshore wind power as a future industry, leveraging advantages of its maritime environment. However, maritime navigation remains active
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In the future, electricity generation through eco-friendly renewable energy will accelerate. Surrounded by sea on three sides, the Republic of Korea is gaining attention for offshore wind power as a future industry, leveraging advantages of its maritime environment. However, maritime navigation remains active in waters, with maritime transportation being crucial, as it accounts for over 95% of the country’s cargo volume. Therefore, ensuring the safety of vessel operations is vital when constructing offshore wind farms. This study proposed alternative routes to ensure the safety of vessels and secure existing routes in the waters of the southwestern sea, where intensive development of OWFs is expected. The routes were determined based on the Permanent International Association of Navigation Congresses (PIANC) Guidelines and Maritime Traffic Safety Act’s implementation guidelines. Clearance between a maritime route and OWF was set to the rule of 6 L + 0.3 NM + 500 m for safety. The route width was calculated while considering vessel maneuverability, environmental factors, seabed conditions, the depth-to-draft ratio, and two-way traffic. The alternative routes were categorized into four types—maritime highways, maritime provincial routes, approach routes for departure/arrival, and recommended routes based on vessel positions, engine status, and route function. By considering traffic flow and applying international and domestic standards, these routes will ensure safe, efficient, and orderly vessel operations.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Maritime Traffic Engineering)
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Open AccessReview
Intelligent Maritime Shipping: A Bibliometric Analysis of Internet Technologies and Automated Port Infrastructure Applications
by
Yangqiong Zou, Guangnian Xiao, Qingjun Li and Salvatore Antonio Biancardo
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2025, 13(5), 979; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse13050979 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2025
Abstract
Amid the dual imperatives of global trade expansion and low-carbon transition, intelligent maritime shipping has emerged as a central driver for the innovation of international logistics systems, now entering a critical window period for the deep integration of Internet technologies and automated port
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Amid the dual imperatives of global trade expansion and low-carbon transition, intelligent maritime shipping has emerged as a central driver for the innovation of international logistics systems, now entering a critical window period for the deep integration of Internet technologies and automated port infrastructure. While existing research predominantly focuses on isolated applications of intelligent technologies, systematic evaluations of the synergistic effects of technological integration on maritime ecosystems, policy compatibility, and contributions to global carbon emission governance remain under-explored. Leveraging bibliometric analysis, this study systematically examines 488 publications from the Web of Science (WoS) Core Collection (2000–2024), yielding three pivotal findings: firstly, China dominates the research landscape, with a 38.5% contribution share, where Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and port automation constitute the technological pillars. However, critical gaps persist in cross-system protocol standardization and climate-adaptive modeling, accounting for only 2.7% and 4.2% of the literature, respectively. Secondly, international collaboration networks exhibit pronounced “Islamization”, characterized by an inter-team collaboration rate of 17.3%, while the misalignment between rapid technological iteration and existing maritime regulations exacerbates industry risks. Thirdly, a dual-track pathway integrating Cyber–Physical System (CPS)-based digital twin ports and open-source vertical domain-specific large language models is proposed. Empirical evidence demonstrates its efficacy in reducing cargo-handling energy consumption by 15% and decision-making latency by 40%. This research proposes a novel tripartite framework, encompassing technological, institutional, and data sovereignty dimensions, to resolve critical challenges in integrating multi-source maritime data and managing cross-border governance. The model provides academically validated and industry-compatible strategies for advancing sustainable maritime intelligence. Subsequent investigations should expand data sources to include regional repositories and integrate interdisciplinary approaches, ensuring the adaptability of both technical systems and international policy coordination mechanisms across diverse maritime ecosystems.
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(This article belongs to the Section Ocean Engineering)
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Open AccessArticle
Navigating Coastal Vulnerability: Introducing the Coastal Fuzzy Vulnerability Index (CFVI)
by
Zekâi Şen
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2025, 13(5), 978; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse13050978 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2025
Abstract
Vulnerability impacts have increased in an unprecedented way with the effects of global warming, climate change, erosion, sea level rise, tsunami, flood, and drought—natural events that jointly cause geomorphological changes, especially in coastal zones. There are no analytical mathematical formulations under a set
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Vulnerability impacts have increased in an unprecedented way with the effects of global warming, climate change, erosion, sea level rise, tsunami, flood, and drought—natural events that jointly cause geomorphological changes, especially in coastal zones. There are no analytical mathematical formulations under a set of assumptions due to the complexity of the interactive associations of these natural events, and the only way that seems open in the literature is through empirical formulations that depend on expert experiences. Among such empirical formulations are the Coastal Vulnerability Index (CVI), the Environmental Vulnerability Index (EVI), the Socioeconomic Vulnerability Index (SVI), and the Integrated Coastal Vulnerability Index (ICVI), which is composed of the previous indices. Although there is basic experience and experimental information for the establishment of these indices, unfortunately, logical aspects are missing. This paper proposes a Coastal Fuzzy Vulnerability Index (CFVI) based on fuzzy logic, aiming to improve the limitations of the traditional Coastal Vulnerability Index (CVI). Traditional CVI relies on binary logic and calculates vulnerability through discrete classification (such as “low”, “medium”, and “high”) and arithmetic or geometric means. It has problems such as mutation risk division, ignoring data continuity, and unreasonable parameter weights. To this end, the author introduced fuzzy logic, quantified the nonlinear effects of various parameters (such as landforms, coastal slope, sea level changes, etc.) through fuzzy sets and membership degrees, and calculated CFVI using a weighted average method. The study showed that CFVI allows continuous transition risk assessment by fuzzifying the parameter data range, avoiding the “mutation” defect of traditional methods. Taking data from the Gulf of Mexico in the United States as an example, the calculation result range of CFVI (0.38–3.04) is significantly smaller than that of traditional CVI (0.42–51), which is closer to the rationality of actual vulnerability changes. The paper also criticized the defects of traditional CVI, being that it relies on subjective experience and lacks a logical basis, and pointed out that CFVI can be expanded to integrate more variables or combined with other indices (such as the Environmental Vulnerability Index (EVI)) to provide a more scientific basis for coastal management decisions. This study optimized the coastal vulnerability assessment method through fuzzy logic, improved the ability to handle nonlinear relationships between parameters, and provided a new tool for complex and dynamic coastal risk management. Further research possibilities are also mentioned throughout the text and in the Conclusion section.
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(This article belongs to the Section Coastal Engineering)
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Open AccessArticle
Integrated Approach to Ship Electrification Using Fuel Cells and an Ammonia Decomposition System
by
Onur Yuksel, Eduardo Blanco-Davis, David Hitchmough, G Viknash Shagar, Andrew Spiteri, Maria Carmela Di Piazza, Marcello Pucci, Nikolaos Tsoulakos, Milad Armin and Jin Wang
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2025, 13(5), 977; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse13050977 (registering DOI) - 18 May 2025
Abstract
This study investigates the environmental and economic performance of integrating a proton exchange membrane fuel cell, battery systems, and an organic Rankine cycle-based waste heat recovery system for ship electrification. The analysis examines an onboard ammonia decomposition system for hydrogen production and ammonia
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This study investigates the environmental and economic performance of integrating a proton exchange membrane fuel cell, battery systems, and an organic Rankine cycle-based waste heat recovery system for ship electrification. The analysis examines an onboard ammonia decomposition system for hydrogen production and ammonia production pathways. Additionally, the study benchmarks the effectiveness of onboard ammonia decomposition against green hydrogen bunkering scenarios (H2-BS). The analysis is based on data collected over two years from a bulk carrier provided by Laskaridis Shipping Co., Ltd. The environmental analysis includes well-to-wake emissions calculations. At the same time, economic performance is assessed through levelised cost of energy (LCOE) computations for 2025 and 2040, factoring in different fuel and carbon price scenarios. Consequently, the analysis utilises the Complex Proportional Assessment method to compare configurations featuring various ammonia production pathways across economic cases. The results indicate that green and pink ammonia feedstocks achieve maximum equivalent carbon dioxide reductions in the electrification plant of up to 47.28% and 48.47%, respectively, compared to H2-BS and 95.56% and 95.66% compared to the base scenario. Ammonia decomposition systems prove more economically viable than H2-BS due to lower storage and fuel costs, leading to competitive LCOE values that improve under higher carbon pricing scenarios.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Marine Fuel Cell Technology: Latest Advances and Prospects)
Open AccessArticle
A Saturation Adaptive Nonlinear Integral Sliding Mode Controller for Ship Permanent Magnet Propulsion Motors
by
Xi Wang, Zhaoting Liu, Peng Zhou, Baozhu Jia, Ronghui Li and Yuanyuan Xu
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2025, 13(5), 976; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse13050976 (registering DOI) - 18 May 2025
Abstract
The conventional-speed Sliding Mode Controller (SMC) for ship PM propulsion motors, which employs exponential reaching laws and linear sliding surface functions, demonstrates susceptibility to oscillatory phenomena. To solve this problem, this paper proposes a saturation adaptive nonlinear integral sliding mode controller (SANI-SMC) which
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The conventional-speed Sliding Mode Controller (SMC) for ship PM propulsion motors, which employs exponential reaching laws and linear sliding surface functions, demonstrates susceptibility to oscillatory phenomena. To solve this problem, this paper proposes a saturation adaptive nonlinear integral sliding mode controller (SANI-SMC) which combines a nonlinear integral sliding surface function with an adaptive saturation gain reaching rate. The nonlinear integral sliding surface function improves the system responsiveness, and then enhances the stability and robustness of the system. The adaptive saturation gain reaching rate not only mitigates the chattering effect induced by the sign function in traditional exponential reaching rates, but also weakens the underlying oscillations. This approach effectively solves the overshoot problem inherent in traditional PI controllers, and has better anti-interference ability under sudden load variations. Finally, the proposed controller is experimentally verified based on an electric propulsion semi-physical experimental platform consisting of Rapid Control Prototyping (RCP), and compared with a Proportional–Integral (PI) controller and an SMC. Moreover, the integral absolute error (IAE), integral time-weighted absolute error (ITAE), and integral of the square value (ISV) metrics are calculated for the PI controller, SMC, and SANI-SMC based on experimental data collection. The results demonstrate that the SANI-SMC exhibits superior stability and robustness compared to both the PI controller and SMC.
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(This article belongs to the Section Ocean Engineering)
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Open AccessArticle
Microbial and Functional Gene Dynamics in Long-Term Fermented Mariculture Sediment
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Guochao Zhang, Mengyuan Luo, Cuilian Xu, Xinru Pan, Guoqiang Yi, Wei Xiao, Chenghao Wang, Zhen Zhao and Ruilong Li
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2025, 13(5), 975; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse13050975 (registering DOI) - 18 May 2025
Abstract
The microorganisms of mariculture sediments are key to regulating and maintaining their ecosystem balance and have garnered research interest. Although the microbial composition and functional potential of mariculture sediments have been extensively explored in the past, the effects of long-term aquaculture on microbial
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The microorganisms of mariculture sediments are key to regulating and maintaining their ecosystem balance and have garnered research interest. Although the microbial composition and functional potential of mariculture sediments have been extensively explored in the past, the effects of long-term aquaculture on microbial communities and functional genes have been scarcely studied. Sediment samples from mariculture ponds with durations of 1 year, 6 years, and 10 years were collected in this study. A high-throughput metagenomic analysis was then conducted. The results showed that the sediments fermented for 1 year had the highest α-diversity, creating conditions for the divergence of functional microbial communities. Due to nutrient competition, long-term fermentation led to a decrease in both diversity and functional redundancy. Key functional groups exhibited different temporal succession patterns. In addition, long-term fermentation, especially fermentation over 10 years, resulted in significant differentiation of functional genes, particularly those related to carbon and nitrogen metabolism. This study reveals the distribution pattern of the microbiome during the natural fermentation process and its temporal coupling relationship with the functions of the pond ecosystem. It clarifies the dynamic evolution of functional genes, providing a theoretical basis for the sustainable management of mariculture.
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(This article belongs to the Section Marine Aquaculture)
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Open AccessReview
Advancing Maritime Safety: A Literature Review on Machine Learning and Multi-Criteria Analysis in PSC Inspections
by
Zlatko Boko, Ivica Skoko, Zaloa Sanchez Varela and Vice Milin
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2025, 13(5), 974; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse13050974 (registering DOI) - 17 May 2025
Abstract
This literature review provides a structured quantitative analysis of existing research on the application of machine learning models (MLMs) and multi-criteria decision-making methods (MCDM) in the context of port state control (PSC). The aim of the study is to capture current research trends,
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This literature review provides a structured quantitative analysis of existing research on the application of machine learning models (MLMs) and multi-criteria decision-making methods (MCDM) in the context of port state control (PSC). The aim of the study is to capture current research trends, identify thematic priorities, and demonstrate how these analytical tools have been used to support decision-making and risk assessment in the maritime domain. Rather than evaluating the effectiveness of individual models, the study focuses on the distribution and frequency of their use and provides insights into the development of methodological approaches in this area. Although several studies suggest that the integration of MLMs and MCDM techniques can improve the objectivity and efficiency of PSC inspections, this report does not provide a comparative assessment of their performance. Instead, it lays the groundwork for future qualitative studies that will assess the practical benefits and challenges of such integration. The findings suggest a fragmented but growing research interest in data-driven approaches to PSC and highlight the potential of advanced analytics to support maritime safety and regulatory compliance.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Ocean Engineering)
Open AccessArticle
Feasibility and Cost-Benefit Analysis of Methanol as a Sustainable Alternative Fuel for Ships
by
Pei-Chi Wu and Cherng-Yuan Lin
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2025, 13(5), 973; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse13050973 (registering DOI) - 17 May 2025
Abstract
The amendment to MARPOL Annex VI, which limits the sulfur content in marine fuels to a maximum of 0.5 wt.%, came into effect in January 2020. This includes reducing sulfur oxide (SOX) emissions and establishing nitrogen oxide (NOX) emission
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The amendment to MARPOL Annex VI, which limits the sulfur content in marine fuels to a maximum of 0.5 wt.%, came into effect in January 2020. This includes reducing sulfur oxide (SOX) emissions and establishing nitrogen oxide (NOX) emission standards (Tiers I, II, and III) based on the ship’s engine type and construction date. Furthermore, the regulations require oil tankers to control volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions and prohibit the installation of new equipment containing ozone-depleting substances. After a four-year exploration phase, global shipping companies still lack consistent evaluation criteria for the selection and use of alternative fuels, resulting in divergence across the industry. According to the latest data, methanol can reduce NOX, SOX, and particulate matter (PM) emissions by approximately 80%, 99%, and 95%, respectively, compared to traditional heavy fuel oil. Furthermore, green methanol has the potential for near-zero greenhouse gas emissions and can meet the stringent standards of Emission Control Areas. Therefore, this study adopts a cost-benefit analysis method to evaluate the feasibility and implementation benefits of two promising strategies: methanol dual fuel and very low-sulfur fuel oil (VLSFO). A 6600-TEU container ship was selected as a representative case, and the evaluation was conducted by replacing an older ship with a newly built one. The reductions in total pollutants and CO2-equivalent emissions of the container ship, as well as the cost-effectiveness of each specific strategy, were calculated. This study found that, in the first five years of operation, the total incremental cost of Vessel A, which uses 100% VLSFO, will be significantly lower than that of Vessel B, which uses a blend of 30% e-methanol + 70% VLSFO as fuel. Furthermore, compared to a scenario without any improvement strategies, the total incremental cost for Vessels A and B will increase by 69.90% and 178.15%, respectively, over five years. Vessel B effectively reduced the total greenhouse gas emission equivalent (CO2e) of CO2, CH4, and N2O by 24.72% over five years, while Vessel A reduced the CO2e amount by 12.18%. Furthermore, the cost-benefit ratio (CBR) based on total pollutant emission reduction is higher for Vessel A than for Vessel B within five years of operation. However, in terms of the cost-effectiveness of CO2e emission reduction, the CBR of Vessel A becomes lower than Vessel B after 4.7 years of operation. Therefore, Vessel A’s strategy should be considered a short-term option for reducing CO2e within 4.7 years, whereas the strategy of Vessel B is more suitable as a long-term solution for more than 4.7 years.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Marine Environmental Science)
Open AccessArticle
Study on the Suppression of Tip Leakage Vortex in Axial Flow Pumps Based on Circumferential Grooving in the Rotor Chamber
by
Haoran Wu, Desheng Zhang, Xi Shen, Chen Ni and Gang Yang
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2025, 13(5), 972; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse13050972 (registering DOI) - 17 May 2025
Abstract
The stability of axial flow pumps is significantly affected by the tip leakage vortex (TLV), which is generated through the entrainment of the main flow. This study explores the effects of circumferential grooving in the rotor chamber on the tip leakage vortex of
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The stability of axial flow pumps is significantly affected by the tip leakage vortex (TLV), which is generated through the entrainment of the main flow. This study explores the effects of circumferential grooving in the rotor chamber on the tip leakage vortex of an axial flow pump by using the SST k-ω turbulence model. Numerical results were validated with prototype pump experiments. At the design condition, circumferential grooves positioned near the blade leading edge enhance both the pump’s efficiency and head. Grooves implemented at the mid-chord to trailing-edge regions are relatively close to those of the prototype pump. The implementation of grooves at both leading and trailing regions resulted in significantly degraded performance compared to the other two cases. However, at reduced flow rates, grooving in the rotor chamber leads to a decline in performance. Grooves positioned near the blade’s leading edge interfere with the ingress of the TLV into the suction side, suppressing vortex formation. Vortex structures and low-pressure regions are closer to the blade, reducing flow instability. In contrast, grooving in the middle and rear rotor chamber induces instability in the tip region. These findings offer theoretical guidance for suppressing the TLV and enhancing the stability of axial flow pumps.
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(This article belongs to the Section Ocean Engineering)
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Open AccessArticle
Study on Suppression of Vortex-Induced Vibrations of a Rotating Cylinder with Dual Splitter Plates
by
Jiaqi Li, Qiongfang Qi, Zonghao Sun, Yongkang Yang, Yaowen Han, Wei Chen, Jiangyan Shao, Binrong Wen and Xiaobin Li
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2025, 13(5), 971; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse13050971 (registering DOI) - 16 May 2025
Abstract
To investigate the suppression method for vortex-induced vibrations (VIV) of two-degree-of-freedom (2-DOF) rotating cylinders with dual splitter plates, numerical simulations are conducted at a Reynolds number of 200, a mass ratio of 2.6, and rotation ratio of 2. The effects of the gap
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To investigate the suppression method for vortex-induced vibrations (VIV) of two-degree-of-freedom (2-DOF) rotating cylinders with dual splitter plates, numerical simulations are conducted at a Reynolds number of 200, a mass ratio of 2.6, and rotation ratio of 2. The effects of the gap distance and the width of splitter plates on the vibration response, hydrodynamic coefficients, and flow wakes of rotating cylinders are examined. The numerical results show the existence of distinct suppression mechanisms between low gap distances (G/D = 0.25–0.5) and high gap distances (G/D = 0.75–2.0). Furthermore, the width (W/D) is considered as a critical factor in suppression effectiveness. The distributions of wake patterns under different gap distance and width are analyzed, and six wake patterns are observed. Finally, lift and drag coefficients are examined, revealing their distinct sensitivities to G/D and W/D. The optimal gap distance and width parameters of dual splitter plates for rotating cylinders suppression are determined. Marine drilling is persistently subjected to VIV, which critically compromise structural stability. The findings of this study deliver engineering value for marine riser VIV suppression.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Ocean Engineering)
Open AccessArticle
Qualitative Risk Assessment Methodology for Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships: Cognitive Model-Based Functional Analysis and Hazard Identification
by
Seong Na, Dongjun Lee, Jaeha Baek, Seonjin Kim and Choungho Choung
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2025, 13(5), 970; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse13050970 - 16 May 2025
Abstract
Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASSs) incorporate advanced digital technologies, thus rendering their systems more complex and diverse than those of conventional ships. Furthermore, the operation of MASSs, which introduces new risks not encountered in conventional ship operations, differs significantly from that of conventional
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Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASSs) incorporate advanced digital technologies, thus rendering their systems more complex and diverse than those of conventional ships. Furthermore, the operation of MASSs, which introduces new risks not encountered in conventional ship operations, differs significantly from that of conventional manned vessels. These challenges highlight the necessity for a more systematic and structured approach to risk analysis and control. This study presents a qualitative risk assessment methodology to identify and manage hazardous scenarios associated with MASS operations systematically. The key feature of the proposed methodology is the integration of cognitive model-based functional analysis with the widely adopted hazard identification (HAZID) method, which enables a structured and comprehensive analysis process. Functional analysis is used to examine the functions required for MASS operations and to analyze interconnected systems to fulfill these functions. Subsequently, HAZID is performed to identify hazardous scenarios that may cause functional degradation or failure. To illustrate the proposed methodology, a case study is presented based on a qualitative risk assessment conducted in preparation for the field trial of an Autonomous Navigation System. Practical applications, including the presented case study, demonstrated the effectiveness of this methodology as a systematic tool for identifying and evaluating potentially hazards in MASS operations.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancements in Maritime Safety and Risk Assessment)
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Open AccessReview
Unmanned Surface Vessels in Marine Surveillance and Management: Advances in Communication, Navigation, Control, and Data-Driven Research
by
Zhichao Lv, Xiangyu Wang, Gang Wang, Xuefei Xing, Chenlong Lv and Fei Yu
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2025, 13(5), 969; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse13050969 - 16 May 2025
Abstract
Unmanned Surface Vehicles (USVs) have emerged as vital tools in marine monitoring and management due to their high efficiency, low cost, and flexible deployment capabilities. This paper presents a systematic review focusing on four core areas of USV applications: communication networking, navigation, control,
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Unmanned Surface Vehicles (USVs) have emerged as vital tools in marine monitoring and management due to their high efficiency, low cost, and flexible deployment capabilities. This paper presents a systematic review focusing on four core areas of USV applications: communication networking, navigation, control, and data-driven operations. First, the characteristics and challenges of acoustic, electromagnetic, and optical communication methods for USV networking are analyzed, with an emphasis on the future trend toward multimodal communication integration. Second, a comprehensive review of global navigation, local navigation, cooperative navigation, and autonomous navigation technologies is provided, highlighting their applications and limitations in complex environments. Third, the evolution of USV control systems is examined, covering group control, distributed control, and adaptive control, with particular attention given to fault tolerance, delay compensation, and energy optimization. Finally, the application of USVs in data-driven marine tasks is summarized, including multi-sensor fusion, real-time perception, and autonomous decision-making mechanisms. This study aims to reveal the interaction and coordination mechanisms among communication, navigation, control, and data-driven operations from a system integration perspective, providing insights and guidance for the intelligent operations and comprehensive applications of USVs in marine environments.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Unmanned Marine Vehicles: Perception, Planning, Control and Swarm—2nd Edition)
Open AccessArticle
Numerical Study of the Energy-Saving Effect of the Gate Rudder System
by
Hujia Cui, Donglei Zhang, Yuan Kong and Xianzhou Wang
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2025, 13(5), 968; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse13050968 - 16 May 2025
Abstract
Energy-saving device (ESD) plays an important role in mitigating the emission of greenhouse gases in ship industry. It is necessary to study a promising ESD, a gate rudder, for its great potential in promoting energy efficiency. In the present study, ship resistance and
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Energy-saving device (ESD) plays an important role in mitigating the emission of greenhouse gases in ship industry. It is necessary to study a promising ESD, a gate rudder, for its great potential in promoting energy efficiency. In the present study, ship resistance and self-propulsion simulations were conducted to investigate the energy-saving effects of gate rudder using a viscous in-house CFD solver. First, verification and validation studies were performed to estimate the accuracy and reliability of the numerical method and the results are in good agreement with experimental data. Afterward, resistance and self-propulsion simulations of a crude carrier equipped with the conventional rudder and the gate rudder were carried out respectively. Ship resistance and self-propulsion characteristics with different sailing velocities and propeller revolution rates were compared to study the energy-saving ability of the gate rudder as well as its effects on ship hydrodynamic performance. The results indicate that the gate rudder can greatly optimize the energy efficiency of the ship. Meantime, the ship equipped with the gate rudder shows better resistance and propulsion performance in a self-propelled state.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Maritime Efficiency and Energy Transition)
Open AccessArticle
An Integrated Design of Course-Keeping Control and Extended State Observers for Nonlinear USVs with Disturbances
by
Nianzhe Wu, Jianning Li and Ju Xiong
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2025, 13(5), 967; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse13050967 - 16 May 2025
Abstract
The integrated design problem of non-fragile controllers and extended state observers (ESOs) for nonlinear unmanned surface vehicles (USVs) under mismatched disturbances is addressed in this paper. First, an integrated model combining the USV system and the rudder system is developed, which includes a
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The integrated design problem of non-fragile controllers and extended state observers (ESOs) for nonlinear unmanned surface vehicles (USVs) under mismatched disturbances is addressed in this paper. First, an integrated model combining the USV system and the rudder system is developed, which includes a second-order underdamped system and a Norrbin nonlinear model incorporating uncertainties. Due to the coupling issues in the design of controllers and observers caused by parameter perturbations or other unmodeled dynamics, an integrated design method, which enables the simultaneous computation of controller gains, observer gains, and disturbance compensation gains, is proposed, effectively addressing these issues. Ultimately, the performance of the designed strategy is verified through a simulation, with the data used in the simulation derived from the real Qingshan USV.
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(This article belongs to the Section Ocean Engineering)
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Open AccessArticle
The TSformer: A Non-Autoregressive Spatio-Temporal Transformers for 30-Day Ocean Eddy-Resolving Forecasting
by
Guosong Wang, Min Hou, Mingyue Qin, Xinrong Wu, Zhigang Gao, Guofang Chao and Xiaoshuang Zhang
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2025, 13(5), 966; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse13050966 - 16 May 2025
Abstract
Ocean forecasting is critical for various applications and is essential for understanding air–sea interactions, which contribute to mitigating the impacts of extreme events. While data-driven forecasting models have demonstrated considerable potential and speed, they often primarily focus on spatial variations while neglecting temporal
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Ocean forecasting is critical for various applications and is essential for understanding air–sea interactions, which contribute to mitigating the impacts of extreme events. While data-driven forecasting models have demonstrated considerable potential and speed, they often primarily focus on spatial variations while neglecting temporal dynamics. This paper presents the TSformer, a novel non-autoregressive spatio-temporal transformer designed for medium-range ocean eddy-resolving forecasting, enabling forecasts of up to 30 days in advance. We introduce an innovative hierarchical U-Net encoder–decoder architecture based on 3D Swin Transformer blocks, which extends the scope of local attention computation from spatial to spatio-temporal contexts to reduce accumulation errors. The TSformer is trained on 28 years of homogeneous, high-dimensional 3D ocean reanalysis datasets, supplemented by three 2D remote sensing datasets for surface forcing. Based on the near-real-time operational forecast results from 2023, comparative performance assessments against in situ profiles and satellite observation data indicate that the TSformer exhibits forecast performance comparable to leading numerical ocean forecasting models while being orders of magnitude faster. Unlike autoregressive models, the TSformer maintains 3D consistency in physical motion, ensuring long-term coherence and stability. Furthermore, the TSformer model, which incorporates surface auxiliary observational data, effectively simulates the vertical cooling and mixing effects induced by Super Typhoon Saola.
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(This article belongs to the Section Ocean Engineering)
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Open AccessArticle
Oxidative Stress Responses and Recovery of Marine Medaka (Oryzias melastigma) in Early-Life Stages After Acute Exposure to Crude Oil
by
Xishan Li, Yuekun Dai, Xin Li, Haiqiang Guo, Jiarui Dai, Haonan Wang, Deqi Xiong and Guoxiang Liao
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2025, 13(5), 965; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse13050965 - 15 May 2025
Abstract
Oil spills pose a significant threat to marine ecosystems, with potentially adverse impacts on fish in early-life stages. Despite numerous studies reporting the developmental toxicity of oil exposure, knowledge about the recovery capacity of fish after oil exposure remains limited. Therefore, this study
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Oil spills pose a significant threat to marine ecosystems, with potentially adverse impacts on fish in early-life stages. Despite numerous studies reporting the developmental toxicity of oil exposure, knowledge about the recovery capacity of fish after oil exposure remains limited. Therefore, this study investigated the effects of water-accommodated fractions (WAFs) of Oman crude oil on the development and oxidative stress of marine medaka (Oryzias melastigma) embryos during a 7-day acute exposure period followed by a 14-day recovery period in clean seawater. Results revealed that WAF exposure caused concentration-dependent developmental toxicity gradually becoming apparent during the recovery period, including reduced survival and hatching rates, and increased morphological abnormalities. During the exposure period, low WAF concentrations triggered antioxidant responses (elevated SOD and CAT activities, and GSH content), while higher concentrations caused a concentration-dependent increase in lipid peroxidation (elevated MDA content). Differently, during the recovery period, all groups showed impaired antioxidant capacity (decreased SOD, CAT, GSH) and immune function (reduced AKP activity). Principal component analysis revealed strong correlations between survival, oxidative stress markers, and developmental toxicity. These findings could provide valuable insights into the recovery capacity of fish exposed to crude oil and give references for assessing the recovery potential of marine ecosystems after oil spills.
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(This article belongs to the Section Marine Biology)
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