Estudio geotécnico in Ciempozuelos

In Ciempozuelos, the dominant ground conditions are determined by masses of surface water and the notable presence of gypsum, anhydrite and salts, followed by compact gravels and sands, as well as outcrops of limestones, dolomites and marbles. The areas with gravels and sands provide good bearing capacity conditions for shallow foundations, although the occasional presence of gypsum and salts implies risks of dissolution and subsidence that severely condition the choice of foundation type. Particular care must be taken when characterising the soils, since expansive clays, although they occur rarely, have shown recorded problems and represent a potential hazard to the stability of structures.

Seismicity in Ciempozuelos is very low, with only 4 events recorded over 30 years and a low maximum magnitude (Mmax 2.6), so it does not pose a relevant threat in the structural design phase. However, the possibility of karst development due to the presence of gypsum, anhydrite and limestones makes it essential to verify the presence of cavities and karstic erosions before any foundation work. The main geotechnical constraint is the combination of soluble soils and the potential risk posed by expansive clays; both factors must be analysed in detail during the geotechnical study prior to any building work.