Formula for the maximum reference pressure at the interface of the breakwater core and filter layer

A formula is proposed to determine the maximum reference pressure at the interface of the breakwater core and filter layer, based on small-scale physical model tests. Regular and irregular waves have been considered. It is found that the maximum reference pressure at the interface of the breakwater core and filter layer depends on the level of the water surface along the breakwater seaward slope. The proposed formula is verified using large-scale model results and real-scale field observations in non-overtopping and non-breaking wave conditions; it contains a nondimensional parameter that is a function of the wavelength and width of the core at a given water depth.