Estudio geotécnico in Medina Sidonia

In Medina Sidonia, sandstone, conglomerates and flysch predominate as the geological substrate, with a significant presence of gravel, compacted sands, limestones and carbonate materials. These geological characteristics favour a medium to high bearing capacity, allowing direct foundations in many cases, especially on the more competent materials. However, the occasional presence of fine sands and silts may require checking the uniformity of the ground and its compaction before designing the foundation. The formations generally exhibit low permeability, although they may host shallow aquifers in certain areas.

Seismic activity in this locality is notable, with 59 events in the last 30 years and a maximum recorded magnitude of 4, so seismicity is a design criterion to take into consideration, although not the main limiting factor. It is important to highlight the possible presence of karstification in the calcareous formations, which implies the need to thoroughly verify ground stability and the absence of cavities before carrying out any foundation design. Since the substrate is not clayey, the risk of expansivity is ruled out; therefore, controlling karst-related phenomena and characterising the load-bearing material are the main requirements for the geotechnical study in the area.