Estudio geotécnico in Antigua

In Antigua, granite, gneiss and other igneous rock formations predominate as the substrate, followed by sandstones, conglomerates and flysch. These rocky materials provide a high bearing capacity, enabling shallow direct foundations or conventional strip footings in most cases. The occasional presence of fine sands, silts and minor levels of hard clays requires attention to avoid differential settlements in specific areas, although overall the geotechnical performance for construction is favourable.

The recorded seismicity in Antigua is very low, with only three events over thirty years and a maximum magnitude of 2.6, implying a minimal impact on structural design. The expansivity analysis indicates the very occasional presence of white or soft expansive clays; however, given their rarity and the dominance of a non-clayey substrate, the risk associated with expansivity is very low. The key requirement in the area is the correct local assessment of altered granitic soils and the characterisation of any fine intercalations to optimise the foundation.