Works

Implementation of BlockChain over Supply chain for Authenticity

Project Thesis

Department of Computer Science

Faculty of Science & IT

American International University Bangladesh

 

Approval

The thesis titled “Blockchain Implimentation On Supply Chain To Cheak The Product Authenticity” has been submitted to the following respected members of the board of examiners of the department of computer science in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Bachelor of Science in Computer Science on (date of defence) and has been accepted as satisfactory.

Prof. Dr. Dip Nandi Professor & Associate Dean, Computer ScienceDepartment of Computer Science American International University-Bangladesh   MD Sajid Bin-Faisal Lecturer & Supervisor Department of Computer Science American International University-Bangladesh

Dr. Akinul Islam Jony Associate Professor & Head (Undergraduate)Department of Computer Science American International University-Bangladesh   MD. Mahmudur Rahman Lecturer & External Department of Computer Science American International University-Bangladesh

 

Acknowledgement

We would like to begin by expressing our sincere gratitude to Almighty Allah for his grace, which has enabled us to complete our thesis on time.

 

We are also thankful to the Faculty of Science & Technology for including the thesis credit in the curriculum of the graduation program, providing us with the opportunity to experience and understand the research process.

 

Our heartfelt appreciation goes to our supervisor, MD Sajid Bin-Faisal, Lecturer of American International University-Bangladesh, for his kind support, constructive guidance, supervision, instructions, advice, and motivation in facilitating our smooth completion of the thesis on the Effects of Stress on Productivity for IT Professionals.

 

We would also like to acknowledge the valuable feedback provided by MD. Mahmudur Rahman, Lecturer of American International University-Bangladesh, which significantly enhanced the quality of our study.

 

Finally, we extend our sincere gratitude to our esteemed Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Carmen Z. Lamagna, and Assistant Professor & Director, Faculty of Science and Technology, Dr. Md. Abdullah – Al – Jubair, for their encouragement and support throughout the research process.

 

Abstract

In today’s digitized world, blockchain technology is becoming increasingly popular. Blockchain technology is being used in a variety of industries, including supply chain management. The purpose of this study is to explore the use of blockchain technology in supply chain management in order to maintain authenticity.

Blockchain technology allows for a secure and reliable system for the supply chain management. It enables increased transparency and trust in the system, as well as improved data security and accuracy. Using a decentralized system, it eliminates the risk of data tampering or manipulation. Additionally, blockchain technology also allows for improved tracking of products, which helps to ensure the accuracy and authenticity of the supply chain process.

Our project offers several advantages over traditional supply chain management systems. One advantage is that it allows for a more secure and authentic system. By using blockchain technology, it eliminates the possibility of data tampering or manipulation. Additionally, it allows for improved tracking of products, which helps to ensure the accuracy and authenticity of the supply chain process. Furthermore, it also reduces the cost and time associated with managing the supply chain process. This makes it an ideal solution for the supply chain management.

Overall, our project propose a more secure, reliable, and cost-effective system for supply chain management using blockchain technology.

 

 Index Term: Blockchain technology, Supply chain management, Authenticity, Transparency, Trust, Data security, Data accuracy, Decentralization, Data tampering, Product tracking, Cost reduction, Time efficiency, Reliability, Supply chain process, Digitalization, Blockchain benefits, Authentication, Data integrity, Traceability.

Chapter 1: Introduction

1.1 What Is Blockchain:

Blockchain is a distributed digital ledger that allows the secure storage and management of data without the need for intermediaries. It is a decentralized system where every participant in the network has access to a copy of the ledger and can verify the authenticity and integrity of the data stored in it. One of the most well-known examples of blockchain technology is the Bitcoin blockchain. Bitcoin is a digital currency that uses blockchain technology to record and verify transactions between users. The Bitcoin blockchain consists of a chain of blocks, with each block containing a list of transactions that have been verified by network participants. The transactions are verified through a process known as mining, where network participants compete to solve complex mathematical problems and the first one to solve the problem gets to add the next block to the chain. Another example of blockchain technology is Ethereum, a decentralized platform that allows the creation and deployment of smart contracts, which are self-executing contracts with the terms of the agreement directly written into lines of code. Ethereum uses a blockchain to store and manage the execution of smart contracts, ensuring their immutability and transparency. It can be said that blockchain is a disruptive technology that has the potential to revolutionize various industries by offering a secure, decentralized, and transparent system for storing and managing data. Its ability to provide a tamper-proof and immutable ledger has made it a popular choice for applications that require transparency, such as financial transactions, supply chain management, and voting systems. As the technology continues to evolve, it is likely that we will see more innovative uses of blockchain in the future.

1.2 What Is Supply Chain:

Supply chain refers to the network of organizations, individuals, and activities involved in the creation and delivery of a product or service from its initial conception to its final consumption. It encompasses all the stages of the product lifecycle, including design, production, distribution, and consumption, and involves the coordination of numerous stakeholders and processes. One example of a supply chain is the production and distribution of a smartphone. The supply chain for a smartphone involves numerous stages, including the design and development of the device, the sourcing of raw materials and components, the manufacturing of the phone, and its distribution to retailers and ultimately to the end consumer. Each of these stages involves a range of activities, such as research and development, procurement, manufacturing, logistics, and marketing, and requires the involvement of various stakeholders, including suppliers, manufacturers, distributors, and retailers. Supply chain can be defined as a complex and dynamic network of activities, processes, and stakeholders that are involved in the creation and delivery of goods and services. The supply chain can be viewed as a system that connects all the different stages of the product lifecycle, from raw materials to final consumption, and involves the coordination of numerous stakeholders and processes. Supply chain management plays a critical role in ensuring the efficient and effective operation of the supply chain by optimizing processes, managing risks, and building collaborative relationships with suppliers and customers. With the increasing globalization of markets and the growing complexity of supply chains, it is becoming increasingly important for organizations to develop robust supply chain strategies that can adapt to changing market conditions and customer demands.

1.3 Coordination of Blockchain with Supply Chain: 

Blockchain technology has the potential to revolutionize the way supply chains operate by providing a secure, decentralized, and transparent system for storing and managing data. By using a blockchain, supply chain participants can track and verify the authenticity and integrity of transactions at every stage of the supply chain, from sourcing of raw materials to the delivery of finished products to consumers. This can help to reduce the risk of fraud, improve traceability, and increase efficiency and transparency in supply chain management. With the increasing complexity and globalization of supply chains, the use of blockchain technology is becoming more prevalent as a means of ensuring the efficiency, security, and transparency of supply chain operations.

1.4 Why my study is different from other existing implimentation: 

 

Implementing blockchain technology in supply chain management have the potential to improve transparency, accountability, and traceability of products from the point of origin to the end-user. This is because the decentralized nature of blockchain allows a secure and immutable record of all transactions and activities in the supply chain. While there are many existing blockchain implementations in supply chain management, the uniqueness of our study lies in several factors such as:

1. Focus on a specific sector: Our study focuses on a particular sector of security, which is product authenticity and how blockchain can be implemented to address the specific challenges and requirements of authenticity.
2. Novel blockchain technology:Our study explores the use of newer and more advanced blockchain technologies, such as DAG (Directed Acyclic Graph) or hybrid blockchains, that offer more security for supply chain management.
3. Will grow the consumer faith: Our study will show how blockchain can make sure the consumer that the product is right and authentic, which will enhance the security and authenticity of supply chain data.
4. Empirical research: Our study may involve conducting empirical research to assess the. effectiveness and impact of blockchain implementation in supply chain management, providing insights and recommendations for businesses and policymakers.
5. Encourage the next generation: Our study will guide the next inventor how blockchain can be used in the authenticity checking task of product in the future.

1.5 Contribution Of the Research:

The implementation of blockchain technology into supply chain management for product authenticity verification has significant potential to contribute to the field of supply chain management and benefit the wider world. By using a blockchain, it is possible to create a tamper-proof, decentralized, and transparent system for tracking the movement of products throughout the supply chain. This can help to reduce the risk of fraud, improve traceability, and increase efficiency and transparency in supply chain management.

In the future, this implementation could pave the way for other researchers to explore the use of blockchain technology for various applications in supply chain management. For example, blockchain could be used to manage and track inventory, optimize logistics, and enhance collaboration between supply chain participants. Furthermore, the use of blockchain technology could have far-reaching implications beyond supply chain management, including the potential to disrupt other industries, such as finance, healthcare, and energy.

The implementation of blockchain technology into supply chain management for product authenticity verification could also have significant benefits for society. By providing consumers with a transparent and trustworthy system for verifying the authenticity of products, it could help to combat the growing problem of counterfeit products. This, in turn, could improve consumer safety and trust in the products they purchase.

Overall, the implementation of blockchain technology into supply chain management for product authenticity verification has the potential to revolutionize the way supply chains operate, enhance transparency, and provide significant benefits to society. As such, it represents an exciting area of research that is likely to continue to grow in importance in the future.

Chapter 2: Motivation

2.1 Problem Statement

 We are doing blockchain implementation in supply chain management. The main problem in the supply chain is+ frauding. Fraud in supply chain management means when someone does something illegal or dishonest in the supply chain to benefit themselves at the expense of others. Fraud can happen at any point in the supply chain, and there are different types of fraud, like stealing, making fake products, or lying about the quality of products [1]. For example, a supplier may say their products are high quality to get paid more, or an employee may steal things from the warehouse to sell them illegally. Fraud can cause financial loss, harm reputations, and lead to legal consequences. We are trying to prevent fraud in supply chain management by implementing blockchain in it. The thesis is focused on finding ways to prevent fraud in supply chain management. To do this, the thesis will explore the use of blockchain technology in supply chain management. Blockchain can provide increased transparency and traceability in the supply chain, which can help prevent fraud. The thesis also aims to identify any gaps or issues in the current use of blockchain in supply chain management, so that developers can conduct further research to address these issues. This will help to make blockchain more effective and efficient in preventing fraud in the supply chain. The thesis will explore how blockchain can prevent fraud in supply chain management and provide recommendations for developers to improve the use of blockchain in this area.

2.2 Usage of Blockchain in modern indutry

Blockchain technology has gained significant attention in various industries due to its potential to provide a secure, decentralized, and transparent system for managing transactions and data. In recent years, several studies have explored the use of blockchain in modern industries, ranging from finance to healthcare, supply chain management, and beyond. In this literature review, we will summarize some of the key findings from recent research on the use of blockchain in modern industries[2]. According to a study by Ali et al. (2020), blockchain technology has the potential to transform the financial industry by enabling real-time settlement, reducing fraud, and increasing transparency. The study suggests that blockchain can reduce costs by eliminating intermediaries and reducing the need for manual reconciliation. In a study by Xu et al. (2021), blockchain technology was found to improve supply chain transparency and reduce the risk of counterfeiting[3]. The study proposes a blockchain-based supply chain management system that can enhance trust and collaboration among supply chain stakeholders. A study by Yang et al. (2021) explores the potential of blockchain technology to improve the security and interoperability of electronic health records (EHRs). The study proposes a blockchain-based system that can facilitate secure sharing of EHRs while protecting patient privacy[4]. According to a study by Wang et al. (2020), blockchain technology can enable peer-to-peer energy trading and increase the penetration of renewable energy sources. The study proposes a blockchain-based energy trading platform that can reduce energy costs and promote the use of clean energy sources. In conclusion, the use of blockchain technology in modern industries has the potential to revolutionize the way we manage transactions and data. While the technology is still in its early stages of development, several industries have already begun exploring its potential. As the technology continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how it will transform various industries and enable new business models[5].

2.3 Is block chain necessary for supply chain

Blockchain is not strictly necessary for supply chain management, but it can provide certain benefits such as increased transparency, security, and efficiency. The decision to use blockchain in a supply chain will depend on the specific needs and requirements of the organization involved.

Blockchain technology has been increasingly used in various industries, including supply chain management. However, the question remains whether blockchain is necessary for supply chain management or not. In this article, we will explore the potential benefits of using blockchain in supply chain management, and whether it is a necessary technology for modern supply chains.

To begin with, the supply chain is a complex network of entities that includes manufacturers, suppliers, distributors, and retailers, among others. The supply chain management process involves coordinating and managing the flow of goods, services, and information from the source to the end-user. The traditional supply chain management systems are often fragmented, with various intermediaries involved in the process, leading to inefficiencies, delays, and higher costs.

Blockchain technology offers potential solutions to many of the challenges facing the supply chain. Blockchain is a distributed, immutable, and transparent ledger that can record all transactions in the supply chain in real-time. It offers a secure and decentralized platform where all stakeholders can share data and collaborate in real-time, eliminating the need for intermediaries and improving trust and transparency.

One of the most significant benefits of blockchain in supply chain management is increased transparency. Since all transactions are recorded on the blockchain, all stakeholders can access and verify the information in real-time, improving visibility and traceability. This can help reduce fraud and counterfeiting, as well as prevent the shipment of counterfeit products. Moreover, blockchain technology can enable faster identification of the source of the problem in case of a recall, making the process more efficient.

Another benefit of blockchain in supply chain management is enhanced security. Blockchain is based on cryptography, and the data stored on the blockchain is tamper-proof, ensuring the authenticity of the information. This means that supply chain stakeholders can securely share sensitive information without the risk of data breaches or unauthorized access. Additionally, blockchain can prevent unauthorized changes to the information stored on the blockchain, ensuring data integrity.

Blockchain can also improve the efficiency of the supply chain management process. By eliminating intermediaries, blockchain can reduce transaction costs and increase the speed of transactions. The decentralized nature of blockchain can also enable real-time tracking and monitoring of goods and services, reducing delays, and improving delivery times. This can help improve the customer experience and increase customer loyalty.

Howver, it is important to note that blockchain is not necessary for supply chain management. Traditional supply chain management systems can still function effectively, albeit with some limitations. For example, traditional supply chain management systems are often slow, manual, and prone to errors, leading to delays and inefficiencies. Moreover, traditional supply chain management systems may not provide the level of transparency and security required in modern supply chains.

Therefore, the decision to use blockchain in supply chain management will depend on the specific needs and requirements of the organization involved. Organizations with complex supply chains and a high volume of transactions may benefit the most from using blockchain technology. However, smaller organizations may not necessarily require blockchain to manage their supply chains effectively.

In conclusion, blockchain technology has the potential to revolutionize supply chain management by providing increased transparency, security, and efficiency. However, it is not a necessary technology for modern supply chains, and the decision to use blockchain will depend on the specific needs and requirements of the organization. The use of blockchain in supply chain management will likely continue to grow as more organizations recognize the potential benefits of this technology.

2.4 Security and safety issues of the Supply Chain

The supply chain is the process by which products or services are made and delivered to consumers. It involves many different companies, individuals, and organizations working together to produce, transport, and distribute goods. However, this complex system also creates security vulnerabilities that can be exploited by attackers. These security issues can include theft, counterfeiting, sabotage, and cyber attacks, among others. When one part of the supply chain is compromised, it can have a ripple effect on the entire system, leading to disruptions and potentially compromising the safety and security of the end users. Therefore, it’s important to implement robust security measures throughout the supply chain to ensure the integrity of the products and services being delivered.

There are issues regarding safety in the supply chain. Problems with safety and security in the food, medicines, medical devices, consumer goods, and automotive industries, among others. [6]

There is process disruption, Supply chain disruptions are events or circumstances that disrupt the flow of goods, services, or information in a supply chain, leading to delays, inefficiencies, or interruptions. Examples of supply chain disruptions include natural disasters, transportation disruptions, supplier disruptions, demand fluctuations, geopolitical and trade disruptions, technological disruptions, and pandemics or health crises. These disruptions can have significant impacts on businesses, such as increased costs, lost sales, damaged customer relationships, and reputational risks. [7]

Terrorism and political instability can create significant challenges for global supply chains. They can disrupt the movement of goods, services, and information, resulting in delays, disruptions, and increased costs. Some specific challenges include disruptions in transportation, such as attacks on infrastructure or hijacking of shipments, disruptions in supplier operations due to political instability, border closures, and trade disputes, increased security measures and costs to mitigate terrorism threats, and reputational risks for businesses due to instability in regions where suppliers or partners are located. These challenges can impact the efficiency, cost, and reputation of the supply chain, requiring proactive measures to mitigate risks and maintain smooth operations. [7]

2.5 What are the aspects uses of blockchai

We are doing blockchain implementation on supply chain management where blockchain can provide a secure and transparent record of a product’s journey through the supply chain, improving efficiency and reducing the risk of fraud. Except this blockchain technology has various use cases across various industries, some of the most common ones include:

• Cryptocurrency: Cryptocurrency refers to a digital or virtual currency that utilizes

cryptography for security and operates independently of a central bank. It is based on the

decentralized blockchain system and runs independently of a central bank. It records

transactions made with a certain cryptocurrency. A block cannot be changed or removed

after it has been added to the chain.[8]

• Digital identity: Blockchain is a safe way to keep personal information. It helps people

control and share their digital identity, which is like their online version of themselves.

This includes things like their name, date of birth, address, and what they do online.[9]

• Smart Contracts: Self-executing contracts with the terms of the agreement betweenbuyer and seller being directly written into lines of code and automatically enforce the terms of an agreement when certain conditions are met. They offer a secure and transparent way of conducting transactions and have the potential to transform traditional contractual relationships.[10]
• Voting: A blockchain-based voting system gives each voter a special digital identity. Their votes are recorded on the blockchain and checked by many different parts of the system. This makes sure that every vote is counted correctly and can’t be changed. When the voting is finished, the results are shown for everyone to see. This helps make the voting process fair and stops cheating.[11]
• Health care: Blockchain can keep medical records safe and help doctors see and share them more easily. This technology can make healthcare better by making it easier to share information, making it more secure, and making sure different computer systems can work together. By keeping health information private and safe, blockchain can make healthcare better for everyone. [12]

 

2.6 What are the other methods, used in supply chain management?

1.  Continuous Flow

This is one of the most traditional models on the list. The continuous flow model is the best choice for industries and businesses that operate with stability. Stability is essential for this model because it is required on both ends, i.e., at the manufacturer and the buyer. This model is well-suited for businesses that produce a uniform set of goods and can expect a stable level of demand from the market. As the name suggests, goods are in continuous flow in this model, and it is based on the stability of supply and demand in the market. The systems in this type of supply chain management method are aligned so that a continuous flow of goods can be ensured.

2. Fast chain

The fast chain model is one of the new names in supply chain strategies. It is suitable for businesses that have product lines with short life cycles. For instance, a fashion designer might have a specific line of designs in a season. The business needs to take the fashion line to the market to maximize returns, as it is usually based on current trends. As supply chain efficiency can increase a business’s competitive edge, this model is usually considered the best among the several types of supply chain integration.

3. Efficient Chain

The efficient chain model has been crafted for hyper-competitive industries. Under this model, the end goal is to maximize efficiency. Following the efficient chain model, the organization is expected to create proper production forecasts so that it can prepare machinery and raw materials accordingly. The biggest drawback of this model is that a disruption in the production or sales cycle can create a lot of ripple effects across the supply chain network. For instance, challenges like labor shortages or raw material shortages could cause lengthy delays, and the organization may have to bear additional costs due to the delay in supply.

4. Agile

The agile model is well-suited for businesses dealing with specialty items where products may require extra care in the supply chain. This model is usually fine-tuned for the product that it is being used for. The agile model is known for the expertise it requires to transport the goods from point A to point B and not so much for the automation or technology involved. Supply chain companies that follow the agile model can charge a premium price for their services. Compared to the efficient chain model that thrives on high volumes, the agile model is only profitable till a threshold of volume is met. After that, it may prove costly to follow this model.

5. Custom-configured

The custom-configured model needs custom setups in the assembly and production stages. It is a mix of agile and continuous flow methods where the product that is being manufactured may require some extra customization, but it needs to operate on an end-to-end basis. It is usually used for prototype design and manufacturing of small batches. The custom-configured model requires additional investment from the company as compared to more traditional models.

6. Flexible

The flexible model can handle high demand during peak season and quickly adjust to a lean period with low demand. To run a flexible model efficiently, a business requires the right supply chain management software and the right people with the knowledge base to operate a flexible model with high efficiency.

Chapter 3: Literature Review

There have been many researches about Implementing Blockchain Technology in Supply Chain Management done by the previous researchers. They have considered some method to impliment blockchain in this sector. Previous researchers have done their researches on different sectors but in this papers. The following table contains the summary of those literatures along with the publication year and authors that came across while doing this study:

Serial	Name of Article	Description	Publication Year	Author(s)
1.	Applications of Blockchain Technology in Logistics and Supply Chain Management—Insights from a Systematic Literature Review.	The thesis paper titled “Applications of Blockchain Technology in Logistics and Supply Chain Management – Insights from a Systematic Literature Review” published in the Logistics journal aims to provide insights into the use of blockchain technology in logistics and supply chain management (SCM) by conducting a systematic literature review. The authors conducted a thorough search of various academic databases and used specific inclusion and exclusion criteria to select relevant literature. They then analyzed the selected literature to identify the use cases, benefits, challenges, and future research directions of blockchain technology in logistics and SCM. The paper is well-structured, with clear and concise sections, and the authors have provided a detailed and comprehensive analysis of the literature. They have identified several key use cases of blockchain technology in logistics and SCM, including supply chain traceability, logistics management, and inventory management. The authors have also highlighted the potential benefits of blockchain technology in improving supply chain visibility, efficiency, and security. Furthermore, the paper presents the challenges associated with the adoption of blockchain technology in logistics and SCM, such as interoperability, regulatory issues, and the need for standardization. The authors have also identified areas for future research, such as the integration of blockchain technology with other emerging technologies like the Internet of Things (IoT) and artificial intelligence (AI). Overall, the thesis paper provides a valuable contribution to the field of logistics and SCM by providing a detailed and comprehensive review of the literature on blockchain technology. The paper is well-written, well-organized, and the authors have used appropriate references to support their findings. I would recommend this paper to anyone interested in the application of blockchain technology in logistics and SCM.	2021	Berneis, M., Bartsch, D., & Winkler, H
2.	Combining Blockchain Technology and the Physical Internet to Achieve Triple Bottom Line Sustainability: A Comprehensive Research Agenda for Modern Logistics and Supply Chain Management. Logistics,	The thesis paper by Treiblmaier titled “Combining Blockchain Technology and the Physical Internet to Achieve Triple Bottom Line Sustainability: A Comprehensive Research Agenda for Modern Logistics and Supply Chain Management” published in the Logistics journal proposes a research agenda for modern logistics and supply chain management that combines blockchain technology and the physical internet to achieve triple bottom line sustainability. The paper is well-structured and presents a detailed and comprehensive review of the literature on blockchain technology and the physical internet. The author has identified the key challenges faced by the logistics and SCM industry, including the need for greater transparency, efficiency, and security. The author argues that blockchain technology can provide a solution to these challenges by enabling greater transparency and security in supply chain transactions, while the physical internet can help improve the physical connectivity of logistics networks. The author has also highlighted the potential benefits of combining blockchain technology and the physical internet in logistics and SCM, such as reduced transaction costs, increased resource efficiency, and improved supply chain visibility. The paper also identifies several key research questions related to the integration of these technologies, such as the development of blockchain-based supply chain traceability systems, the use of smart contracts to automate logistics processes, and the design of physical internet-enabled logistics networks. The thesis paper provides valuable insights into the potential benefits of combining blockchain technology and the physical internet for logistics and SCM, and the identified research questions provide a roadmap for future research in this area. However, the paper could benefit from more empirical evidence to support its claims, as most of the arguments presented are based on theoretical reasoning. Overall, the thesis paper is a valuable contribution to the field of logistics and SCM, providing a detailed and comprehensive review of the literature on blockchain technology and the physical internet.	2019	Treiblmaier, H.
3.	The impact of the blockchain on the supply chain: a theory-based research framework and a call for action”, Supply Chain Management,	Treiblmaier’s 2018 paper, “The impact of the blockchain on the supply chain: a theory-based research framework and a call for action” published in the Supply Chain Management journal is an insightful and thought-provoking contribution to the academic literature on the blockchain and supply chain management. The paper presents a theoretical framework for understanding the potential impact of the blockchain technology on supply chain management. It proposes that blockchain can enhance supply chain efficiency and transparency by enabling secure and decentralized data sharing, reducing transaction costs, and increasing trust among participants. The paper also highlights some of the key challenges and limitations of the blockchain technology, such as scalability, interoperability, and regulatory issues. The research framework proposed by Treiblmaier is comprehensive, and it can guide future research on the topic. The author identifies several areas where further research is needed, such as the design of blockchain-based supply chain applications, the evaluation of the economic and social impact of blockchain, and the development of governance structures for blockchain-based supply chains. Overall, the paper is well-written, and the arguments are supported by relevant references and examples. The author’s call for action for supply chain practitioners and policymakers to embrace the potential of blockchain is timely and relevant, given the increasing interest and adoption of blockchain technology in various industries. However, it is worth noting that the paper was published in 2018, and since then, the blockchain technology has evolved significantly. Therefore, some of the observations and conclusions presented in the paper may need to be updated or revised to reflect the current state of the technology and its impact on supply chain managemen		Treiblmaier, H.
4.	Translating High Hopes Into Tangible Benefits: How Incumbents in Supply Chain and Logistics Approach Blockchain	Hackius and Petersen’s 2020 paper, “Translating High Hopes Into Tangible Benefits: How Incumbents in Supply Chain and Logistics Approach Blockchain” published in IEEE Access is a well-researched and informative study on the adoption of blockchain technology in the supply chain and logistics industry. The paper presents the findings of an empirical study that examines how incumbents in the supply chain and logistics industry approach blockchain technology. The authors conducted interviews with 17 companies across the supply chain and logistics industry to gain insights into their perceptions, attitudes, and expectations towards blockchain technology. The study reveals that incumbents are cautiously optimistic about the potential of blockchain to enhance supply chain efficiency and transparency. However, they also perceive several barriers to adoption, such as a lack of standards, regulatory uncertainty, and interoperability issues. The authors also identify several factors that influence the adoption of blockchain technology, such as the perceived benefits, the cost of implementation, and the level of trust in the technology. The paper’s strengths include the detailed and insightful analysis of the empirical data, which provides a nuanced understanding of how incumbents view blockchain technology in the supply chain and logistics industry. The authors also provide practical recommendations for companies seeking to adopt blockchain technology, such as focusing on use cases that generate immediate benefits and collaborating with partners to establish common standards and governance models. However, the study’s limitations include the relatively small sample size and the focus on incumbents, which may limit the generalizability of the findings to other industries or to blockchain startups. Additionally, the paper was published in 2020, and since then, the blockchain technology has continued to evolve, and new use cases and applications have emerged. In summary, Hackius and Petersen’s paper is a valuable contribution to the literature on the adoption of blockchain technology in the supply chain and logistics industry. It provides a detailed analysis of incumbents’ perceptions, attitudes, and expectations towards blockchain technology and offers practical recommendations for companies seeking to adopt blockchain technology. However, future research is needed to further explore the adoption of blockchain technology in other industries and to assess its impact on supply chain performance and resilience	2020	N. Hackius and M. Petersen
5.	Blockchain and supply chain management integration: a systematic review of the literature	Queiroz, Telles, and Bonilla’s 2020 paper, “Blockchain and supply chain management integration: a systematic review of the literature,” published in the Supply Chain Management journal is a comprehensive and insightful analysis of the existing literature on the integration of blockchain technology in supply chain management. The paper provides a detailed overview of the various ways in which blockchain technology can be integrated into supply chain management, such as secure data sharing, traceability, and smart contracts. The authors also identify the potential benefits of blockchain integration, such as increased transparency, reduced fraud, and improved supply chain efficiency. The study follows a systematic review methodology, and the authors analyze 59 relevant papers published between 2010 and 2018. The authors employ a rigorous approach to the selection, analysis, and synthesis of the literature, ensuring the study’s validity and reliability. The paper’s strengths include the comprehensive and thorough analysis of the existing literature, which provides a clear and concise overview of the state-of-the-art in blockchain integration in supply chain management. The authors also provide useful insights into the various challenges and limitations of blockchain integration, such as scalability, interoperability, and regulatory issues. However, the paper’s limitations include the focus on literature published between 2010 and 2018, which may not fully capture the current state of the art in blockchain technology and supply chain management. Additionally, the authors’ analysis is limited to peer-reviewed articles, excluding relevant studies from non-academic sources. In summary, Queiroz, Telles, and Bonilla’s paper is a valuable contribution to the literature on blockchain integration in supply chain management. It provides a comprehensive and insightful analysis of the existing literature, identifying the various ways in which blockchain technology can be integrated into supply chain management and the potential benefits and challenges of such integration. The paper is recommended reading for anyone interested in the intersection of blockchain and supply chain management.	2020	Queiroz, M.M., Telles, R. and Bonilla, S.H.
6.	Blockchain technology for supply chain finance: A systematic review and future research directions. Transportation Research Part E: Logistics and Transportation Review	Wei et al.’s 2022 paper, “Blockchain technology for supply chain finance: A systematic review and future research directions,” published in the Transportation Research Part E: Logistics and Transportation Review, provides a comprehensive analysis of the potential applications of blockchain technology in supply chain finance. The authors follow a systematic review methodology and analyze a broad range of existing literature, including academic articles, industry reports, and white papers. The study provides a detailed overview of the potential benefits of blockchain technology for supply chain finance, such as improved transparency, security, and efficiency. The paper identifies various challenges and limitations of blockchain integration in supply chain finance, such as regulatory compliance, standardization, and interoperability. The authors provide valuable insights into the various implementation challenges and highlight the need for standardization and interoperability across different blockchain platforms. The paper’s strengths include the comprehensive and thorough analysis of the potential benefits and challenges of blockchain integration in supply chain finance, providing a clear and concise overview of the state-of-the-art in blockchain integration in supply chain finance. The authors also provide valuable insights into the various implementation challenges and highlight the need for standardization and interoperability across different blockchain platforms. However, the paper’s limitations include the lack of empirical evidence to support the authors’ claims, and the focus on potential benefits rather than practical implementations. Additionally, the authors could have provided more in-depth analysis of specific use cases of blockchain integration in supply chain finance. In summary, Wei et al.’s paper is a valuable contribution to the literature on blockchain integration in supply chain finance. It provides a comprehensive and insightful analysis of the potential benefits and challenges of blockchain integration in supply chain finance, as well as valuable insights into the various implementation challenges and the need for standardization and interoperability across different blockchain platforms. The paper is recommended reading for anyone interested in the intersection of blockchain technology and supply chain finance.	2022	Wei, J., Yu, Y., Zhang, H., & Li, G.

7. 
   
   
   
   In their 2016 article, “Blockchain‐Enabled Supply Chain Governance: Opportunities and Challenges,” published in the Journal of Business Logistics, Gaurav et al. explore the potential of blockchain technology to enhance supply chain governance. The authors provide a comprehensive review of the existing literature on blockchain technology and supply chain governance, highlighting the potential benefits of blockchain technology, including increased transparency, efficiency, and security. The article also discusses potential challenges and limitations of blockchain technology, such as scalability, interoperability, and regulatory compliance. The paper’s strengths include its thorough analysis of the potential benefits and challenges of blockchain technology in supply chain governance, as well as its discussion of various blockchain-based solutions that have been proposed to address specific supply chain governance issues. However, the paper’s limitations include its focus on the theoretical potential of blockchain technology, without providing empirical evidence to support the authors’ claims. Additionally, the article could have provided more in-depth analysis of specific use cases of blockchain technology in supply chain governance. Overall, Gaurav et al.’s article provides a valuable contribution to the literature on blockchain technology in supply chain governance. It provides a comprehensive overview of the potential benefits and challenges of blockchain technology, highlighting its potential to enhance supply chain governance. The paper is recommended reading for anyone interested in the intersection of blockchain technology and supply chain governance.[13]

 

8. Abdullah, Hossain, and Ahamed (2019) present a case study on the use of blockchain technology for supply chain traceability in the tea industry. The study analyzes the potential of blockchain technology to address supply chain issues such as food safety, transparency, and accountability. The authors discuss the key features of blockchain technology that enable effective supply chain traceability, including distributed ledger technology, smart contracts, and cryptographic algorithms. They also present a case study of a blockchain-based supply chain traceability system implemented in the tea industry, which enables consumers to verify the authenticity and quality of tea products. The study highlights the potential benefits of blockchain technology in supply chain traceability, including improved transparency, reduced fraud, and increased trust among supply chain stakeholders. However, the authors also acknowledge several challenges in implementing blockchain-based traceability systems, including technical complexity, data privacy, and interoperability. Overall, this study provides a valuable contribution to the literature on blockchain technology in supply chain traceability. It presents a real-world case study of the implementation of a blockchain-based traceability system in the tea industry and discusses the potential benefits and challenges of such systems. This paper is recommended for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers interested in the application of blockchain technology in supply chain traceability.[14]

 

9. In their article titled “A Blockchain-Enabled Traceability Framework for Sustainable Supply Chain Management,” Fathollahi-Fard, Zamanian, and Rahimi-Kian (2021) present a framework that leverages blockchain technology to improve traceability in sustainable supply chain management. The authors argue that such a framework can enhance transparency, accountability, and trust in supply chains, while also promoting sustainable practices. The article provides a detailed analysis of the key challenges in sustainable supply chain management, including issues related to traceability, transparency, and environmental sustainability. The authors then propose a blockchain-enabled traceability framework that can help address these challenges by providing a secure and transparent platform for tracking products throughout the supply chain. The strengths of the article include its clear and well-structured presentation of the proposed framework, as well as its comprehensive discussion of the challenges facing sustainable supply chain management. The authors also provide a detailed analysis of the potential benefits of the proposed framework, including improved sustainability, reduced waste, and enhanced consumer trust. One limitation of the article is that it primarily focuses on the theoretical potential of the proposed framework, without providing empirical evidence to support its claims. Additionally, the article could have provided more in-depth analysis of the practical challenges and limitations of implementing the proposed framework in real-world settings. Overall, Fathollahi-Fard et al.’s article makes a valuable contribution to the literature on sustainable supply chain management and blockchain technology. It proposes a well-designed framework that can help address the key challenges in sustainable supply chain management, and provides a clear roadmap for future research in this area. The article is recommended reading for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers interested in sustainable supply chain management and blockchain technology.[15]

 

10. Hsu and Hu’s (2021) article, “Blockchain and the future of supply chain management: A review and research agenda,” published in Transportation Research Part E: Logistics and Transportation Review, provides a comprehensive review of the existing literature on blockchain technology and its potential implications for supply chain management. The authors begin by discussing the potential benefits of blockchain technology, including increased transparency, security, and efficiency in supply chain operations. They then review a wide range of applications of blockchain technology in supply chain management, including traceability, smart contracts, and decentralized marketplaces. The article also provides a critical analysis of the limitations and challenges of blockchain technology, such as scalability, interoperability, and regulatory compliance. The authors conclude by offering a research agenda to guide future research in the field of blockchain and supply chain management. The strength of this article lies in its comprehensive review of the literature and its critical analysis of the potential benefits and challenges of blockchain technology in supply chain management. The authors also offer a useful research agenda to guide future research in this area. However, the article could benefit from a more in-depth discussion of specific use cases of blockchain technology in supply chain management, as well as empirical evidence to support the authors’ claims. Overall, Hsu and Hu’s article is a valuable contribution to the literature on blockchain and supply chain management, providing a comprehensive overview of the potential implications of blockchain technology for supply chain operations. It is recommended reading for anyone interested in the intersection of blockchain technology and supply chain management.[16]

 

11. In their 2021 article, “The Effect of Blockchain Technology on Supply Chain Sustainability Performances,” published in Sustainability, Park and Li investigate the impact of blockchain technology on supply chain sustainability performance. The authors conduct a systematic literature review to identify relevant articles that examine the relationship between blockchain technology and supply chain sustainability. They then synthesize the findings from these articles and identify key themes related to the impact of blockchain on sustainability, including increased transparency, traceability, efficiency, and trust. The paper’s strengths include its comprehensive literature review and its identification of key themes related to the impact of blockchain on supply chain sustainability. The authors also provide practical implications for managers and policymakers seeking to improve sustainability performance through the use of blockchain technology. However, the paper’s limitations include its reliance on existing literature rather than original research, as well as the limited scope of the review, which focuses primarily on the impact of blockchain on environmental sustainability rather than broader social and economic sustainability. Overall, Park and Li’s article provides a valuable contribution to the literature on blockchain technology and supply chain sustainability. It highlights the potential benefits of blockchain technology for improving sustainability performance and provides practical implications for managers and policymakers. The paper is recommended reading for anyone interested in the intersection of blockchain technology and supply chain sustainability.[17]

 

12. This study aimed to propose a framework for the adoption of blockchain in complex supply chain networks. The authors conducted empirical analysis on the impact of supply chain management practices on operational performance in the oil industry in Pakistan, and identified different blockchain features and their influence on different supply chain practices. The study provides valuable insights for managers and decision-makers to evaluate their current supply chain practices and understand how different blockchain features can help improve these practices and ultimately enhance operational performance. The paper is well-structured and presents a clear methodology, which includes the identification of supply chain practices and the analysis of their impact on operational performance. The authors also provide a comprehensive literature review of blockchain technology in supply chain management. One limitation of the study is its focus on the oil industry in Pakistan, which may limit its generalizability to other industries and contexts. Additionally, the study only focuses on the impact of blockchain on supply chain management practices and operational performance, and does not address potential challenges or limitations in the adoption of blockchain technology. Overall, this study makes a valuable contribution to the literature on blockchain adoption in supply chain management practices and provides a useful framework for decision-makers to evaluate the adoption of blockchain technology in their supply chain networks.[18]

 

13. The paper by Lahkani et al. (2020) discusses the application of blockchain technology in supply chain finance and sustainable B2B e-commerce. The authors argue that blockchain can contribute to sustainability in supply chains by improving transparency, traceability, and accountability. The study presents a conceptual framework for blockchain-enabled supply chain finance, which combines blockchain technology with smart contracts to facilitate secure and automated financing in supply chains. The authors also propose a case study of a blockchain-based supply chain finance platform that can improve the sustainability of B2B e-commerce transactions. The platform is designed to address the challenges of traditional supply chain finance, such as information asymmetry and lack of trust, by leveraging blockchain’s immutable and decentralized nature. Overall, the paper provides a comprehensive and insightful analysis of the potential of blockchain technology in enhancing sustainability in B2B e-commerce and supply chain finance. The authors offer valuable insights into the design and implementation of blockchain-based solutions that can contribute to sustainable supply chain practices. The paper is well-written and well-organized, with clear and concise explanations of key concepts and ideas. However, it should be noted that the study is primarily conceptual in nature and would benefit from empirical validation through real-world case studies. Nonetheless, the paper is a valuable contribution to the literature on blockchain and sustainable supply chains and provides a solid foundation for future research in this area.[19]

 

14. Blockchain technology is a distributed, replicated, and immutable digital ledger that eliminates the need for a central authority or intermediary in conducting business. Its most notable application is in payment systems, such as bitcoin. This disruptive technology is expected to bring significant business value to multiple sectors, including supply chain management (SCM). This article reviews the fundamentals of Hyperledger Fabric, a permissioned blockchain implementation, and provides a strategic assessment of blockchain’s prospects. Through examining the context of a food supply chain, the authors discuss the key design and implementation challenges of blockchain, as well as dispel myths about it being a ‘silver bullet’ for all businesses. Blockchain is a high-cost storage medium and is only viable when the benefits outweigh its costs. The paper provides enterprises with a systematic approach to understanding the costs and risks of blockchain adoption, and such insights can be applied to other areas like financial services and healthcare.[20]

 

15. This study examines the implementation of Blockchain technology in a circular supply chain management (CSCM) context and develops a framework to evaluate the critical success factors of its implementation. A combined AHP and DEMATEL method is used to explore the priorities and relationships of the success factors, and the results suggest that technology-related success factors, such as technical capability, technological maturity, and technological feasibility, are critical for CSCM. Additionally, knowledge training and data security are identified as essential causal factors influencing other factors. This provides a potential path for determining critical success factors and facilitating the use of Blockchain-enabled CSCM.[21]

 

16. This study explored the potential of blockchain technology in modern supply chain transactions and the relevance of applications for businesses. Through a literature review, Delphi study, and survey of German machinery and equipment sector business managers, the most relevant blockchain use cases in SC transactions were identified as verified customer reviews and product quality certification. The least likely adoption of blockchains was found to be for documentsigning processes. Additionally, two newly identified BAAs – logistics and delivery systems, and token-curated registries – were found to be among the top four most relevant. The results of this study will likely inform future business strategies on when, why and where to participate in blockchain networks.[22]

 

17. This paper presents a systematic approach to the performance assessment of blockchain in the supply chain. It identifies four performance domains – environmental, economic, customer, and information – and utilizes literature review, factor analysis, and DEMATEL theory to develop an integrated model incorporating the 4 criteria and 25 subcriteria. This is the first paper to analyze blockchain performance in an industry setting.[23]

 

18. This paper discusses the use of Blockchain technology to create digitally interconnected supply chain networks that offer opportunities for efficiency, cost savings, and traceability. A systematic approach is proposed to prioritize customer needs and design requirements for effective Blockchain integration. The approach is based on the House of Quality (HoQ) method, with a group decision making (GDM) approach and an incomplete intuitionistic fuzzy relation (IIFR) extension. The usefulness of the methodology is tested with an application and validated by experts. The results indicate that a Blockchain-based supply chain is expected to deliver financial benefit, efficient use of time, and the ability to support automation, effective coordination, and conformity. GDM and IIFR are combined for the first time for this purpose, making this paper an original contribution to the field.[24]

 

19. This research explores the criteria and challenges facing the application of blockchain in renewable energy supply chains and ranks them in terms of their capacity to disrupt the process. Through the use of hybrid developed methods, this study evaluates and ranks the identified challenges. The results of the rankings show a high degree of correlation, with “high investment cost” being the most important challenge to the application of blockchain in sustainable energy supply chains. This research is beneficial in understanding the challenges of applying blockchain technologies to supply chains, and how to best address these challenges in order to gain a

competitive advantage.[25]

 

20. For this purpose, a comprehensive framework of use case clusters of BCT in SCM is developed according to the distinctive features of BCT. We identify five emerging use case clusters of BCT in SCM which clearly extend the scope beyond frequently mentioned applications such as product tracking and tracing. Consequently, the supply chain management (SCM). generally seen as an important application area for BCT which is confirmed by a number of recent news .In the academic community, interest in BCT its business applications have grown steadily in the last few years] which is confirmed by a number of recent literature reviews].an expert survey of logistics professionals to explore potential applications and future prospects of BCT Scm.The contribution of this article is twofold: first, a comprehensive positioning framework has been developed BCT and its potential application areas in the domain from Scm. This makes it possible to determine a current state of the art BCT compatible applications in SCM and for identification of future prospects in this sector. The remainder of this document is structured as follows: in section 2 we provide the conceptual foundations of SCM and BCT and derive the corresponding framework from using case clusters. Consequently, supply chain management (SCM) is generally viewed as a major field of application for BCT which is confirmed by a series of recent news items. In the academic community, the interest in BCT and its business applications has been steadily growing over the last years which is confirmed by a series of recent literature reviews. Use an expert survey of logistics professionals to explore potential applications and future prospects of BCT in SCM. The contribution of this paper is twofold: first, a comprehensive framework is developed positioning BCT and its potential areas of application in the domain of SCM.mThis allows for determining a current state of the art ofBCT-enabled applications in SCM and for identifying future perspectives in this field. The remainder of this paper is structured as follows: in section 2, we provide conceptual foundations of SCMand BCT and derive the corresponding framework of use case clusters.[26]

 

21. The logistics and supply chain management community realizes how Blockchain could have an impact on your industry. To shed light on this emerging field, we have conducted an online survey and sought advice from logistics professionals Examples of blockchain use cases, barriers, intermediaries and general perspectives in logistics and supply chain management. However, factors such as hierarchy level, Blockchain experiences and industry sector have an important impact on the evaluation of the participants. It took longer for logistics and supply chain management (SCM) . The community recognized this and slowly realized the impact blockchain could have on their industry. Supply chain transparency is one of the most important and most difficult improvement points for logistics e SCM (Abeyratne & Monfared 2016). This can be explained by the novelty of technology, but also so clearly due to the lack of compelling use cases showing the advantage of blockchain over existing IT solutions. SCM Logistics and Research on blockchain is still in its infancy. We then present the results of an international survey that we conducted within the logistics industry to examine the perspectives of the four use cases and Blockchain expectations and concerns. In this paper, we presented a study on the current state of Blockchain in logistics and SCM. To shed light on the first research question pertaining to possible applications of Blockchain in logistics and SCM, we introduced four use case examples that are under exploration in theory and practice. To provide insights into the second research question about Blockchain being a trick or a treat for logistics and SCM, we presented the findings of a survey. The survey was conducted in the logistics and SCM industry and investigated the participants’ opinion on use cases, showstoppers, and benefits of Blockchain. As our findings show, Blockchain is expected to have a considerable impact on the logistics industry and should be considered a treat. However, our findings also show logisticians should start “chewing” on Blockchain soon. They are well-advised to find out how much of the overall Blockchain hype could be developed into a value-add for their service portfolio before someone else does.[27]

 

22. This paper aims to combine the perspectives of business practice and academic research on the use of blockchain technology (BCT) in supply chain management (SCM). A comprehensive framework of use case clusters is developed and used to analyze 53 applications of BCT in SCM, which are derived from a systematic literature review and a secondary dataset of blockchaindriven innovations in SCM. Five emerging use case clusters of BCT in SCM are identified, expanding beyond product tracking and tracing. This paper provides a summary of the current state of the art and avenues for further research. This paper explores the potential applications and future prospects of blockchain technology (BCT) in the field of Supply Chain Management (SCM). The paper begins by providing conceptual foundations of SCM and BCT and deriving a framework of use case clusters. Then, the authors conduct a systematic literature review and analyze a secondary dataset of BCTenabled SC innovations. This allows them to determine the current state of the art of BCTenabled applications in SCM and identify future perspectives in this field. The findings are discussed in section 5, and the paper concludes with a summary of the findings and an outlook for further research. This paper investigated the applications of Blockchain Technology (BCT) in Supply Chain Management (SCM) and the potential benefits they could bring. To do this, a comprehensive framework of use case clusters was developed and used to analyse 53 BCT applications in SCM, both from literature and business practice. The findings of this paper are that applications of BCT in SCM can be grouped into five use case clusters, focusing on provenance tracing and automation of SC operations and only occasionally covering SC finance. Virtual on-demand SCs are proposed to be the next evolutionary step of BCT in SCM. Additionally, this paper concludes that BCT applications focus on the benefits of implementing a novel technology, rather than its potential for institutional innovation, and are subject to many technical limitations. It is also proposed that further research should be conducted to extend the scope to related fields and to apply empirical research methods to gain insight into the benefits and challenges of implementing blockchain applications in the SC context.[28]

 

23. In the last few years, blockchain technology (BCT) has gained widespread acceptance and importance, being implemented in different areas such as social and legal industries, finance, smart property, and supply chain networks. BCT offers a secure and immutable data system without the need for a third party, as well as a transparent and decentralized transaction system. While there has been general research on BCT, there is a lack of systematic analysis on its effective applicability in supply chain management (SCM). This work aims to identify the stateof-the-art BCT applications for SCM through a systematic literature review (SLR), synthesizing existing evidence and identifying gaps. A systematic mapping study (SMS) method was used to examine 40 primary studies from scientific databases. Recent systematic literature reviews (SLR) on supply chain management (SCM) have highlighted the importance of information and communication technology (ICT) for improving industries’ supply chains. However, they have not focused on blockchain technology (BCT). This technology has been generating research interest due to its potential to provide efficient solutions for supply chain industries. Existing SLR on blockchain have not addressed this topic yet. BCT is a decentralized transaction and data management technology which is secure and immutable. Trust and decentralization are the two key characteristics of BCT. This paper outlines the research

methodology and process of collecting relevant research papers, presents the results and discusses the study. Limitations and conclusions are also discussed.  This paper presents a systematic mapping study to survey existing research on Supply Chain Management (SCM) using Blockchain Technology (BCT). The purpose is to identify research trends, open subjects, and gaps for improvement in this discipline. Results show that 42.5% of papers focus on supply chain traceability, 17% on SCM information, and 17% on blockchaindriven supply chain finance.[29]

 

Chapter 4: Survey Information

4.1 Collected Information:

Survey Q: 1

Survey Q: 2

Survey Q: 3

Survey Q: 4

Survey Q: 5

Survey Q: 6

Survey Q: 7

Survey Q: 8

4.2 Analysis Of Collected Data:

Based on the collected survey data, we can analyze the responses as follows: 100% of the respondents are familiar with the concept of product authenticity. 30% of the respondents consider ensuring the authenticity of products they purchase as extremely important. 30% of the respondents believe that blockchain technology is extremely effective in addressing the issue of product authenticity. 40% strongly agree that blockchain technology can enhance transparency in the supply chain. 30% strongly agree that blockchain technology can improve traceability and track the origin of products. 30% strongly agree that blockchain technology can prevent counterfeit products from entering the supply chain. 40% strongly agree that blockchain technology can help build trust between consumers and suppliers. 30% are very likely to trust a product labeled as “authentic” if its authenticity is verified through blockchain technology.

Overall, the survey results indicate a high level of awareness regarding product authenticity and a significant importance placed on ensuring the authenticity of purchased products. The majority of respondents believe that blockchain technology is effective in addressing the issue of product authenticity and can enhance transparency, traceability, and trust in the supply chain. These findings suggest a positive perception of blockchain technology’s potential role in improving supply chain management and combating counterfeit products.

Chapter 5: Methodology

5.1 Problem Domain And Scenario:

The methodology employed in this thesis titled “Blockchain Implementation on Supply Chain to Check Product Authenticity” is predominantly qualitative in nature. The primary focus of this research is to explore and understand a new aspect of implementing blockchain technology within the supply chain industry to verify the authenticity of products.

Qualitative research methods will be utilized to gather in-depth insights, opinions, and perspectives from relevant stakeholders, such as supply chain managers, industry experts, and consumers. The data collection techniques will involve conducting interviews, surveys, and analyzing relevant case studies. The qualitative approach will enable a comprehensive examination of the complexities and nuances associated with blockchain implementation and its impact on supply chain operations.

Supply chain management involves the movement of goods and services from the point of origin to the point of consumption. It is a complex process that involves multiple parties, including manufacturers, suppliers, distributors, retailers, and consumers. However, one of the main problems in supply chain management is fraud. Fraud can occur at any point in the supply chain, and it can take various forms, such as stealing, making fake products, or lying about the quality of products.

The traditional supply chain management system lacks transparency and accountability, which makes it difficult to prevent fraud. Companies rely on intermediaries to verify and track the movement of goods, but these intermediaries can be vulnerable to manipulation and fraud themselves. Therefore, there is a need for a more reliable and transparent system that can prevent fraud in the supply chain.

Fraud in the supply chain is a significant problem for many companies. Fraud can occur at any point in the supply chain and can take various forms, such as stealing, making fake products, or lying about the quality of products. Traditional supply chain management systems lack transparency and accountability, making it difficult to prevent fraud.

To address this problem, companies are increasingly turning to blockchain technology. By implementing a blockchain-based system, companies can track the movement of goods from the point of origin to the point of consumption, ensuring that the products are genuine and of high quality. The blockchain-based system also provides increased transparency and traceability in the supply chain, allowing companies to monitor the movement of goods and verify the authenticity of products at every stage of the supply chain.

However, implementing blockchain technology in the supply chain is not without its challenges. Companies need to ensure that all suppliers and intermediaries are onboard with the new system, and there may be a need for additional training to ensure smooth implementation. Additionally, companies need to consider the cost of implementing and maintaining the blockchain system, as it requires a significant investment of time and resources.

Overall, the goal of implementing blockchain technology in the supply chain is to prevent fraud and increase transparency, leading to better-quality products and increased customer satisfaction.

5.2 Justify The Problem:

For this research described above we can incorporate both qualitative and quantitative methods, making it a mixed-methods approach. For instance, the literature review can be conducted using qualitative methods to gather and analyze qualitative data such as expert opinions, case studies, and previous research. Data collection can also include both qualitative and quantitative methods, such as conducting interviews or surveys with stakeholders to gather qualitative data, and analyzing data from supply chain management systems to gather quantitative data. The data analysis phase can involve both qualitative and quantitative analysis techniques. For instance, qualitative data analysis methods such as content analysis can be used to analyze data from interviews or open-ended survey questions. Additionally, quantitative data analysis techniques such as regression analysis can be used to analyze data from supply chain management systems. The development and evaluation of the blockchain-based system would also require both qualitative and quantitative data. Qualitative data such as user feedback and usability testing can be used to improve the design of the system, while quantitative data such as system performance metrics can be used to measure the effectiveness of the system. Finally, the recommendations provided at the end of the research can incorporate both qualitative and quantitative insights gained from the various phases of the study.

 

5.3 Step-by-Step Processes for Completing Research:

Blockchain technology has gained significant attention in recent years due to its potential to revolutionize various industries, including supply chain management. Supply chain management is a critical aspect of many businesses and industries, and the implementation of blockchain technology in this area could offer numerous benefits, such as increased transparency, traceability, and efficiency. Also, the field of blockchain implementation in supply chain management is relatively new and rapidly evolving. There may be a lack of comprehensive and up-to-date literature on this topic, making it an interesting and timely research area to explore.

We chose this subject because it will allow us to understand the existing state of knowledge, identify research gaps, and offer suggestions for future study in this developing area. We also aim to explore and understand the potential implications, challenges, and opportunities of blockchain implementation in supply chain management.

Figure: Steps required for research

We gathered information from various published papers that align with our research goal. We also mentioned those papers as a reference. Security is a critical consideration when implementing blockchain technology in supply chain management. It’s important to note that security requirements may vary depending on the specific use case, industry, and implementation approach of blockchain in supply chain management. A secure implementation can be ensured by conducting a complete security assessment and following best practices in blockchain security.

5.4 Exploring Data Collection and Research Findings through Literature:

We reviewed several papers on how blockchain is used in supply chain management. These papers are important because they follow a systematic approach to analyzing and summarizing existing research on the topic of blockchain implementation in supply chain management. They provide a detailed overview of the current perspectives, security, and financial benefits of using blockchain in logistics. This information can be a starting point for our research and help us build our analysis and findings. One key aspect of these papers is their focus on practical applications of blockchain in real-world supply chain management scenarios. They highlight how blockchain can be used to improve trust, transparency, accountability, cooperation, information sharing, financial exchanges, and supply chain integration. These papers also discuss the challenges and criteria for applying blockchain technology in supply chains.

In summary, these papers offer a comprehensive and organized literature review, summarizing existing perspectives and showcasing the financial advantages of using blockchain in logistics. They also emphasize the practical applications of blockchain in supply chain management, making them valuable references for our research. These papers help us understand the challenges and criteria for using blockchain in supply chains and highlight its potential benefits in enhancing trust, transparency, accountability, cooperation, information sharing, financial exchanges, and supply chain integration in sustainable energy supply chains.

5.5 Why This Approach is Fruitful for Satisfying The Hypothesis:

Implementing blockchain technology in supply chain management for ensuring the authenticity of products is a highly relevant and meaningful approach. This is because blockchain offers several unique features that can address challenges in supply chain management, such as lack of transparency, traceability, and accountability.

The proposed approach of using a unique block key for each product in the supply chain and linking it to the previous and next blocks creates an unalterable record of the product’s journey. By verifying three keys, the customer can confirm the authenticity of the product and its origin. This ensures that customers can trust the authenticity of the product they are purchasing, which can improve customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Furthermore, the use of blockchain technology can also reduce the risk of fraud and counterfeiting in the supply chain, which can help improve the overall integrity and reliability of the supply chain. This can be especially relevant for industries such as pharmaceuticals, luxury goods, and food products, where product authenticity and safety are of utmost importance.

Overall, implementing blockchain technology in supply chain management for ensuring the authenticity of products is a promising area for research, and can potentially offer significant benefits for both businesses and customers

5.6 What makes the study differs from existing studies:

The proposed study of implementing blockchain technology in supply chain management for ensuring product authenticity is different from existing studies in several ways. Firstly, while there have been some studies on the use of blockchain in supply chain management, most of these studies have focused on improving supply chain efficiency, transparency, and traceability, rather than specifically on product authenticity. Therefore, this study aims to fill a research gap by exploring the potential of blockchain technology in ensuring product authenticity in supply chain management.

Secondly, the proposed approach of using a unique block key for each product in the supply chain and linking it to the previous and next blocks is different from existing studies that have mostly focused on using blockchain to track products using serial numbers or QR codes. The proposed approach offers a more secure and tamper-proof method of tracking product authenticity, as the use of unique block keys ensures that each product is uniquely identified and linked to its origin and subsequent journey in the supply chain.

Finally, the proposed study also aims to explore the potential benefits of using blockchain technology in ensuring product authenticity in a wide range of industries, including pharmaceuticals, luxury goods, and food products. This is different from existing studies that have mostly focused on specific industries, such as the diamond industry or the seafood industry. By exploring the potential benefits of blockchain technology across multiple industries, this study can provide valuable insights for businesses and policymakers on the potential of blockchain in ensuring product authenticity in various supply chains 

Conclusion and Future Work:
The proposed study has made significant contributions to the field of blockchain implementation in supply chain management, specifically in ensuring product authenticity. By addressing the research gap in the existing literature and focusing on the distinct aspect of product authenticity, this study has brought valuable insights to the forefront.

The introduction of the unique block key approach has set this research apart from conventional methods. This innovative approach not only provides a highly secure and tamper-proof tracking mechanism but also demonstrates the potential of blockchain technology to revolutionize product authentication in supply chains.

Furthermore, the study’s exploration of multiple industries has broadened the understanding of blockchain technology’s applications for product authentication. The findings and insights gained from analyzing various supply chains offer practical implications for diverse sectors, fostering the adoption of blockchain technology in ensuring product authenticity.

The research conducted in this study contributes to the growing body of knowledge on blockchain implementation in supply chain management. It highlights the significance of blockchain technology in guaranteeing product authenticity and emphasizes the importance of integrating such solutions into existing supply chain processes.

Moving forward, future work in this area should focus on further refining and optimizing the unique block key approach, exploring its scalability, and considering potential challenges in real-world implementation. Additionally, expanding the scope of research to investigate the economic and environmental impacts of adopting blockchain technology for product authentication would provide a comprehensive understanding of its overall benefits.

In conclusion, this research lays a solid foundation for the integration of blockchain technology in supply chain management for ensuring product authenticity. It paves the way for future advancements and encourages industry stakeholders, policymakers, and researchers to explore the vast potential of blockchain in revolutionizing supply chain processes and enhancing consumer trust.

References

1.DuHadway, S., Talluri, S., Ho, W., & Buckhoff, T. (2020). Light in dark places: the hidden world of supply chain fraud. IEEE Transactions on Engineering Management, 69(4), 874-887.

2.Ali, M., Ali, A., Shah, N. H., & Zaman, K. (2020). Blockchain technology and its applications in the financial industry: A review of the literature. Journal of Risk and Financial Management,13(4), 80.

3.Wang, C., Wu, S., Wang, Y., & Chen, Y. (2020). Blockchain-based peer-to-peer energy trading: A review. IEEE Transactions on Smart Grid, 11(2), 1716-1730.

4.Xu, L., Li, Y., & Li, Q. (2021). Blockchain-based supply chain management: A review and research agenda. International Journal of Production Research, 59(5), 1398-1418.

5.Yang, Y., Zhang, L., & Liu, M. (2021). Blockchain-enabled electronic health records: A

systematic review. Journal of Medical Systems, 45(2), 1-10.

 

6.Marucheck, A., Greis, N., Mena, C., & Cai, L. (2011). Product safety and security in the global supply chain: Issues, challenges, and research opportunities. Journal of operations management, 29(7-8), 707-720.

7.Kleindorfer, P. R., & Saad, G. H. (2005). Managing disruption risks in supply chains. Production and operations management, 14(1), 53-68.

8.Milutinović, M. (2018). Cryptocurrency. Економика-Часопис за економску теорију и праксу и друштвена питања, (1), 105-122.

9.Khovratovich, D., & Law, J. (2017). Sovrin: digital identities in the blockchain era. Github Commit by jasonalaw October, 17, 38-99.

10.Khan, S. N., Loukil, F., Ghedira-Guegan, C., Benkhelifa, E., & Bani-Hani, A. (2021). Blockchain smart contracts: Applications, challenges, and future trends. Peer-to-peer Networking and Applications, 14, 2901-2925.

11.Osgood, R. (2016). The future of democracy: Blockchain voting. COMP116: Information security, 1-21.
12.Angraal, S., Krumholz, H. M., & Schulz, W. L. (2017). Blockchain technology: applications in health care. Circulation: Cardiovascular quality and outcomes, 10(9), e003800

13.Gaurav, K., Kumar, V., & Singh, S. (2016). Blockchain‐Enabled Supply Chain Governance: Opportunities and Challenges. Journal of Business Logistics, 37(1), 15-25. https://doi.org/10.1111/jbl.12238

 

14.Abdullah, M., Hossain, M. A., & Ahamed, S. I. (2019). Blockchain-based supply chain traceability: A case study of tea traceability. Future Generation Computer Systems, 92, 264-273. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.future.2018.04.061

 

15.Fathollahi-Fard, A.M., Zamanian, M.R., & Rahimi-Kian, A. (2021). A Blockchain-Enabled Traceability Framework for Sustainable Supply Chain Management. Sustainability, 13(5), 2895. https://doi.org/10.3390/su13052895

 

16.Hsu, W. H., & Hu, Q. (2021). Blockchain and the future of supply chain management: A review and research agenda. Transportation Research Part E: Logistics and Transportation Review, 148, 102067. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tre.2020.102067

 

17.Park, A., & Li, H. (2021). The Effect of Blockchain Technology on Supply Chain Sustainability Performances. Sustainability, 13(4), 1726. https://doi.org/10.3390/su13041726

 

18.Aslam, J., Saleem, A., Khan, N.T., & Kim, Y.B. (2021). Factors influencing blockchain adoption in supply chain management practices: A study based on the oil industry. Journal of Innovation & Knowledge, 6(2), 124-134. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jik.2021.01.002

 

19.Lahkani, M. J., Wang, S., Urbański, M., & Egorova, M. (2020). Sustainable B2B E-Commerce and Blockchain-Based Supply Chain Finance. Sustainability, 12(10), 3968. https://doi.org/10.3390/su12103968

 

20.Kumar, A., Liu, R., & Shan, Z. (2020). Is blockchain a silver bullet for supply chain management? Technical challenges and research opportunities. Decision Sciences, 51(1), 8-37.

 

21.Huang, L., Zhen, L., Wang, J., & Zhang, X. (2022). Blockchain implementation for circular supply chain management: Evaluating critical success factors. Industrial Marketing Management, 102, 451-464.

 

22.Durach, C. F., Blesik, T., von Düring, M., & Bick, M. (2021). Blockchain applications in supply chain transactions. Journal of Business Logistics, 42(1), 7-24.

 

23.Hong, L., & Hales, D. N. (2021). Blockchain performance in supply chain management: application in blockchain integration companies. Industrial Management & Data Systems.

 

24.Büyüközkan, G., Tüfekçi, G., & Uztürk, D. (2021). Evaluating Blockchain requirements for effective digital supply chain management. International Journal of Production Economics, 242, 108309.

 

25.Almutairi, K., Hosseini Dehshiri, S. J., Hosseini Dehshiri, S. S., Hoa, A. X., Arockia Dhanraj, J., Mostafaeipour, A., … & Techato, K. (2022). Blockchain Technology application challenges in renewable energy supply chain management. Environmental Science and Pollution Research, 1-18.

 

26.Manzoor, R., Sahay, B.S. & Singh, S.K. Blockchain technology in supply chain management: an organizational theoretic overview and research agenda. Ann Oper Res (2022). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10479-022-05069-5

 

27.Hackius, Niels; Petersen, Moritz (2017) : Blockchain in logistics and supply chain: Trick or treat?, In: Kersten, Wolfgang Blecker, Thorsten Ringle, Christian M. (Ed.): Digitalization in Supply Chain Management and Logistics: Smart and Digital Solutions for an Industry 4.0 Environment. Proceedings of the Hamburg International Conference of Logistics (HICL), Vol. 23, ISBN 978-3-7450-4328-0, epubli GmbH, Berlin, pp. 3-18,

https://doi.org/10.15480/882.1444

 

28.Blossey, G., Eisenhardt, J., & Hahn, G. (2019). Blockchain technology in supply chain management:

An application perspective.

 

29.Tribis, Y., El Bouchti, A., & Bouayad, H. (2018). Supply chain management based on blockchain: A

systematic mapping study. In MATEC Web of Conferences (Vol. 200, p. 00020). EDP Sciences.

 

View Project

Implementation of an Intelligent Cloud Firewall Log Analyzer with Real-Time Threat Detection Using Python

Implementation of an Intelligent Cloud Firewall Log Analyzer with Real-Time Threat Detection Using Python

• Executive Summary

This project implements a Python-based real-time firewall log analyzer for cloud-hosted Linux virtual machines. It enhances the UFW firewall by detecting repeated suspicious activity such as port scans and dynamically blocking malicious IP addresses. The tool monitors UFW logs, logs incidents, generates daily reports for administrative review, and includes an optional email alert system. Testing was performed on an AWS EC2 Ubuntu instance using simulated attacks via nmap and log injection.

1. Introduction

Firewalls are essential components in network security. Cloud-based virtual machines often face threats such as port scanning and brute-force login attempts. UFW (Uncomplicated Firewall) provides basic protection but lacks intelligent detection and automated responses. This project aims to enhance the UFW firewall by building a log analyzer that can detect and respond to real-time threats.

Objectives

• Monitor and parse firewall logs in real time.
• Detect repeated suspicious activity such as port scans.
• Automatically block attacker IPs using firewall commands.
• Generate log reports for administrative review.

Optionally send email alerts for suspicious activity.

Methodology / Implementation

a. Cloud VM Setup

• Deployed Ubuntu 204VM on AWS EC2.
• Enabled UFW firewall and logging.
• Log file: /var/log/ufw.log

Figure1: AWS EC2 instance dashboard

Figure 2: Terminal output of sudo ufw status verbose

b. Python Script Functionality

• Monitors log file using polling (tail -f style).
• Uses regex to extract IPs from lines containing [UFW BLOCK].
• Maintains a dictionary to count repeated IPs.
• Blocks IP using: sudo ufw deny from IP
• Logs the IP and timestamp in attack_log.txt and suspicious_ips.txt.

Figure 3: log_monitor.py code running

c. Testing the Script

• Used nmap from external host to simulate port scans.
• Injected manual log entries using echo and tee.

Figure 4: nmap scan from Windows command prompt

Figure 5: tail -n 10 /var/log/ufw.log

d. Log Files and Reporting

• attack_log.txt: Logs all blocked IPs with timestamps.
• suspicious_ips.txt: Stores permanently blocked IPs.
• generate_report.py: Creates daily summary in daily_report.txt

Figure 6: cat attack_log.txt

Figure 7: cat suspicious_ips.txt

Figure 8: Output from daily_report.txt

4. Results

The script successfully detected repeated connection attempts, blocked malicious IPs via UFW, and recorded the events in log files. The daily report summarized all blocked events. The email alert feature was implemented but could not be tested due to SMTP login restrictions.

5. Conclusion

This project implemented an intelligent real-time firewall log analyzer using Python, while enhancing the built-in UFW firewall on a cloud-hosted Ubuntu VM. The analyzer effectively blocked repeated attacks and maintained log files for review. Future improvements could include integration with webhook services (like Slack or Telegram) and dashboard visualization.

6. References

https://manpages.ubuntu.com/manpages/focal/en/man8/ufw.8.html

https://docs.python.org/3/library/re.html

https://docs.aws.amazon.com/ec2/

https://support.google.com/mail/answer/7126229

https://owasp.org/www-project-logging/

View Project