Integrating fuzzy DEMATEL and Constructal Law for biofouling dynamics in Marine Growth Prevention Systems

Marine Growth Prevention Systems (MGPS) are vital for maintaining vessel efficiency, reducing biofouling, and ensuring sustainable operation under variable marine conditions. However, their performance is often challenged by complex interdependencies among design, thermodynamic, and operational factors. In this study, a fuzzy DEMATEL (Decision Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory) approach is employed to systematically evaluate and prioritize fifteen critical factors affecting MGPS effectiveness. The analysis integrates Constructal Law principles and bio-inspired design concepts to capture the dynamic interplay between entropy generation, copper ion distribution, electrode configuration, and structural adaptability. Expert evaluations from oceangoing chief engineers with academic and operational experience were used to construct the causal model. The results show that Structural Topology Efficiency (C13) and Evolutionary Robustness under Changing Conditions (C15) exhibited the highest causal influence (rᵢ – cⱼ > 0.35), whereas Biological Antifouling Analogy Consistency (C10) was found to be the most dependent factor (rᵢ – cⱼ < −0.28). Incorporating Constructal alignment principles reduced estimated entropy generation suggesting that thermodynamically optimized configurations can substantially enhance antifouling performance and energy efficiency. The cause–effect diagram highlights that adaptive topology and control responsiveness act as dominant design drivers, shaping electrochemical and flow-related outcomes. This study contributes to the literature by bridging fuzzy multi-criteria decision-making with thermodynamic and bio-organizational perspectives, offering both theoretical insights and practical design guidance. Furthermore, the findings open new research avenues toward integrating Constructal Law optimization with AI-based predictive control, CFD–multi-physics coupling, and self-healing MGPS architectures for next-generation sustainable marine systems.