Estudio geotécnico in Chozas de Canales

In Chozas de Canales, the ground is dominated by extensive water-bearing masses and a notable presence of sandstone, conglomerates and flysch, suggesting the existence of granular soils with adequate bearing capacity in most cases. Compact gravels and sands, although not very common, together with shales and schists, contribute to a varied lithology that makes direct foundations possible, although local heterogeneity must be verified. The high permeability of the aquifers implies the need for hydrogeological studies to properly define the depth and type of foundation, minimising risks associated with differential settlement and possible movement of groundwater.

With regard to seismic conditions, Chozas de Canales shows high seismicity, with 200 events over 30 years and a maximum magnitude of 5.1. This level of seismic activity requires incorporating seismic design criteria into structural solutions. There are no indications of karstification in the dominant materials and the risk due to clay expansivity is limited to subordinate areas; therefore, the main geotechnical challenge lies in correctly analysing the ground’s seismic response and managing the presence of aquifers to guarantee the stability of the foundations.