Estudio geotécnico in Loriguilla

In Loriguilla, limestones, dolomites and marbles predominate, together making up around 52% of the geotechnical substrate, which represents materials with high mechanical strength but that often show low near-surface permeability, although they can act as deep aquifers. The occasional presence of gypsum, anhydrite and salts introduces risks associated with possible dissolution processes; therefore, a specific analysis of these areas is recommended before deciding on foundation depths or the support type. Sandstone and conglomerate layers, although less frequent, can provide some heterogeneity in bearing capacity; local characterisation is essential for optimising the foundation.

The seismic activity recorded in Loriguilla is considered moderate, with 36 events over 30 years and a maximum magnitude of 3.4, which implies a low risk though not completely negligible in the design phase. It is essential to verify the development of karst processes, given the calcareous nature of the substrate and the reasonably significant incidence of karstification; this factor can severely affect the stability and uniformity of the ground beneath structures. As it is a non-clayey substrate, risks of expansivity are ruled out. The main constraint for geotechnical studies in the area is the possible presence of karst cavities and of zones with dissoluble gypsum, which require special attention during the investigation and design phases.