Estudio geotécnico in Collbató

In Collbató, soils are predominantly formed by sandstones, conglomerates and flysch; materials of generally competent nature and good mechanical behaviour for foundations, with a significant frequency of hardened clays and marls that can improve the ground’s bearing capacity due to their degree of overconsolidation. Compact gravels and sands, although less common, offer a favourable alternative as a support level. However, the occasional presence of limestones, dolomites and marbles suggests the possibility of areas with greater stiffness, but it also implies the need for attention regarding the existence of voids associated with karst processes. Overall, the low permeability of most of its formations favours the stability of the footings, although aquifers may be found at depth.

Seismicity in Collbató is very low, with barely one recorded event every thirty years and a maximum magnitude of 2.2, which limits dynamic effects on structures. The substratum is non-clayey, so risks of expansiveness are ruled out. Nevertheless, the potential presence of karst in calcareous materials makes an investigation specifically tailored to the site essential prior to the design of any foundation, since the existence of dissolution processes or cavities represents the main constraint for the safety and durability of works in the municipality.