Hydrodynamics of Marine Propulsion and Trends in Computational and Experimental Simulations

Dear Colleagues,

The hydrodynamics of marine propulsion is undergoing significant transformation as the maritime industry advances toward cleaner, more efficient, and more intelligent technologies. Global initiatives for emissions reduction and energy efficiency are driving renewed interest in understanding and optimizing propulsive performance through advanced theoretical, computational, and experimental methods. Contemporary research explores a wide spectrum of strategies, including propeller design optimization, flow control techniques, novel propulsion concepts, and the integration of hybrid and electric systems.

Computational fluid dynamics, high-fidelity turbulence modeling, and large-scale simulations now offer unprecedented insight into complex flow phenomena such as cavitation, unsteady loading, and propeller–wake interaction. At the same time, experimental approaches—including towing-tank testing, cavitation tunnels, and advanced flow diagnostics—continue to play an essential role in validation and physical understanding. New perspectives also emerge from studies of bubble–propeller interactions, acoustic interference, and bubbly wakes, highlighting the intricate coupling between propulsors and their operating environments.

This Special Issue aims to gather state-of-the-art research on marine propulsion hydrodynamics and to explore emerging trends that will shape next-generation maritime systems. We welcome contributions from both academia and industry addressing numerical modeling, experimental campaigns, innovative propulsion concepts, drag-reduction technologies, and integrated design frameworks that enhance efficiency, reliability, and environmental performance.

Dr. Adelaida Garcia-Magariño
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

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