Estudio geotécnico in Los Barrios

In Los Barrios, the subsoil is composed mostly of slates and schists, metamorphic materials characterised by low permeability and suitable behaviour as a load-bearing support, provided that the foundation is designed following an analysis of the possible presence of surface alterations. In specific areas, limestones, dolomites and marbles occur, which requires particular attention due to their potential for karstification; however, the extent of these materials is limited compared with the whole of the municipality. The selection of the type of foundation should primarily consider the compact nature of the dominant substrate, enabling shallow or deep solutions depending on the thicknesses of alteration detected.

Seismic activity in Los Barrios is very low, with only 2 documented events over three decades and a maximum magnitude of little significance, so it is not identified as a relevant constraint for structural design. However, since karst is a possible phenomenon in the limestone areas, it is essential to carry out a detailed geotechnical study to rule out the presence of voids or caves before executing any type of foundation, as this aspect becomes the main constraint in the local geotechnical study. The absence of soils with expansive clays ensures that the risk of expansivity is negligible.