Liquefaction probability by probabilistic version of Robertson and Wride model

The Robertson and Wride (RW) method is perhaps the most widely used cone penetration test (CPT)-based simplified method for soil liquefaction evaluation. This method is a deterministic model, which expresses the liquefaction potential in terms of factor of safety. In many occasions, there is a need to express the liquefaction potential in terms of liquefaction probability. A probabilistic version of the Robertson and Wride model that is linked to the deterministic solution provides an incentive for the practicing engineer to adopt the probabilistic approach. In this paper a probabilistic version of the RW model is developed. Examples that demonstrate the use of the probabilistic RW model are presented along with a discussion of the treatment of parameter uncertainties in the liquefaction evaluation.