Blockchain Applications in Emergency Logistics: A Bibliometric Study and Future Research Horizons

Improving emergency logistics in order to effectively respond to disasters is becoming vital, with the constant rise of disasters frequency. Conventional supply chains often face challenges in different phases of a disaster, such as the lack of transparency or coordination issues. To examine this potential, the proposed study sheds light on the crucial role of emerging technologies, mainly Blockchain Technology in optimising emergency supply chain management. Blockchain technology has the ability to transform logistics operations deployment during a disaster, through its decentralised and secure features. This paper uses a systematic approach based on science mapping and performance analysis, it offers insights into relevant literature, key scientific works, leading authors, journals, and countries in this topic. The study considers 405 articles from Scopus database and deploys VOSViewer software for visual analysis. The findings highlight the significant contributions of authors like Ivanov. AND Cherrafi, A. Sustainability Switzerland Journal, setting the standard followed by International Journal of Production Research. Regarding countries analysis, the publications are originally from 74 different country with India, China and the United States taking the lead in scientific production. In conclusion, the proposed paper suggests a deeper exploration of potential research opportunities, mainly in the integration of Blockchain technology with other emerging technologies, and the deployment of dynamic modelling techniques in disaster management.