A Review of Ventilation Systems and Fire Incidents on Ships: A Bibliometric and Mathematical Modelling Approach

The development and refinement of air ventilation systems aboard ships are paramount for ensuring safety and operational efficiency. This comprehensive review systematically evaluates the existing literature on shipboard air ventilation and associated fire incidents, employing both bibliometric analysis and mathematical modeling methodologies. It has been observed that ventilation systems are predominantly classified into three categories: mechanical ventilation, natural ventilation, and hybrid systems combining mechanical ventilation with air conditioning (AC). These systems are imperative for regulating temperature, particularly in critical areas such as engine rooms, and for mitigating risks related to leaks and fires. International Maritime Organization (IMO) standards are consistently adhered to, reinforcing the effectiveness of these systems in controlling onboard environments. Furthermore, the application of mathematical models offers significant insights, facilitating the calculation and prediction of outcomes pertinent to ventilation-related research. These models prove crucial for addressing prevalent issues such as leaks and fire hazards within the maritime industry. Conversely, a bibliometric analysis highlights emerging research trends, identifying “ventilation, ” “ship, ” “Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), ” “ship engine, ” “leakage, ” and “fire onboard” as focal keywords. This analysis not only underscores the current research focus but also guides future investigations, encouraging ongoing advancement and innovation in maritime research. This review thus serves as a vital resource for researchers aiming to explore and expand upon the thematic areas identified, potentially leading to breakthroughs in the design and implementation of ship ventilation systems.