A comparative study of the first and second order theories and Goda's formula for wave-induced pressure on a vertical breakwater with irregular waves

The wave pressure intensity at the still water level exerted on a vertical type of breakwater with irregular waves is investigated in this study. During the study, a comparison is made between the first, second order theories, Goda's formula and the experimental data. The results of the comparison state that for smaller wave periods, first order term can adequately express the situation. When the wave period increases, the inclusion of second-order terms result in an overestimation of the pressures. For this purpose, a tentative equation as a function of wave steepness is proposed as a correction for second order terms. Also, the applicability of Goda's formula has been shown as a good estimator for maximum pressure values for all cases.