Tests, models and methodological approaches to assess the liquefaction potential of soils: a systematic review of studies in Latin America

Abstract

The significant loss of strength and stiffness in saturated granular soils caused by concurrent lateral forces during seismic events is one of the main geotechnical risk phenomena in Latin America. In this context, this article presents a systematic review of the types of tests, evaluation models, and methodological approaches used to assess liquefaction potential. To achieve this, the PRISMA methodology was used, considering 34 studies published in Scopus, ResearchGate, and Google Scholar between 2022 and 2025. The results show a predominance of in situ tests, especially the Standard Penetration Test (SPT) and Cone Penetration Test (CPT/CPTu/SCPTu), as well as the use of empirical models in preliminary evaluations. However, there is a growing trend toward the application of computational approaches with large numerical simulations aimed at improving predictive capacity.