Wind-assisted propulsion systems (WAPS) are emerging and promising technologies for achieving decarbonization in the maritime industry. Although WAPS have seen rapid growth and application in recent years, several challenges remain, including inadequate propulsion efficiency, uncertain operational safety, insufficient economic assessment, and lack of standards and policy frameworks. Their implementation is inherently multidisciplinary, with key concerns centered on safety, efficiency, and cost. To address these concerns, this paper presents a state-of-the-art review of the scientific research, industrial developments, and impact assessments from a life cycle perspective. Four WAPS types, rotor, boundary-layer control, wing, and kite sails, are classified and defined. The review covers critical aspects, including industrial and academic developments, unit aerodynamic characteristics, design procedure and considerations, operational challenges, and environmental, economic, social, and political impacts of WAPS deployment. Key limitations and challenges are discussed, and nine critical future directions are outlined. This review aims to provide a reference for guiding the safe, efficient, and cost-effective integration of WAPS into green shipping.
Zhang et al. (Sun,) studied this question.