Estudio geotécnico in Morata de Tajuña

In Morata de Tajuña, the dominant geotechnical subsoil is composed of limestones, dolomites and marbles, accompanied in smaller proportions by water masses, gypsum, anhydrite and salts. These materials, mainly of a carbonate nature, provide a good bearing capacity, favourable for shallow foundations provided that the integrity of the rock is ensured. The occasional presence of gravels, compact sands and a small percentage of expansive clays does not represent a generalised risk, although it is advisable to identify their local distribution in order to avoid differential settlements. Soils containing gypsum, anhydrite and salts require particular attention, where there may be a risk of dissolution, conditioning the foundation design and the durability of the structure.

Seismic activity in the municipality shows a notable level of impact, with 73 recorded events over the last three decades, although with a maximum magnitude that is moderate (Mmax 3.4), which suggests adopting some caution in the ground analysis but without the seismicity being a principal limiting factor. The subsoil is not clayey, so the risk of expansivity is ruled out. However, the potential presence of karst processes arising from the dissolution of the carbonate and gypsum-bearing materials requires carrying out specific studies to verify the existence of voids or cavities before executing any foundation, as this is the main local geotechnical constraint.