Grey system theory in China: A bibliometrics analysis

Using the method of bibliometrics, a 1982~2006 grey systems database was constructed for China from National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI). Gather documents with grey system contained in their titles, by analyzing the year, institution, journal, high citation frequency, theme, subject, output manner etc. Quantitative characteristics of distribution, structure change, research topic, research hotspots are depicted. The results concern: papers upon the grey system increase linearly; the research force mainly distributes in universities; the journals of natural science and engineering are the main carriers which present the achievements of the grey system research; the grey system has spread extensively in the natural science, engineering, agro-forestry, hygiene, human society science and many other fields.