A comprehensive evaluation of grain cargo damage factors in maritime transportation: a neutrosophic perspective

Demirci S. M. E., Elçiçek H., Özkaya G., Canimoğlu R.

Ships and Offshore Structures, cilt.1080, ss.1-24, 2026 (Scopus)

Özet

Safe and efficient maritime transportation of grain cargo is essential for food security and global trade. However, grain cargo is vulnerable to risks that may cause qualitative and quantitative losses during transit, while their relative importance remains insufficiently examined. This study applies TNWAA-based neutrosophic AHP to identify and prioritize risk factors contributing to grain damage during maritime transport. By integrating truth, indeterminacy, and falsity, the method enables a more nuanced evaluation of expert judgments than conventional approaches. The expert assessments identified four main risk categories: wet damage, procedural issues, heat damage, and contamination, together with 17 related sub-factors. Wet damage was ranked as the most influential factor affecting grain cargo integrity. The results provide a basis for risk-focused actions, including improved moisture monitoring, stronger operational procedures, and enhanced environmental controls during maritime transport.