Estudio geotécnico in Puente de Génave

In Puente de Génave, soils formed by gypsum, anhydrites, salts predominate and, to a lesser extent, limestones, dolomites and marbles. These formations, which are frequent in the municipality, generally show medium bearing capacities, although they may be compromised by dissolution processes typical of gypsum and salts, while the occasional presence of expansive clays does not represent the dominant factor given that the subsoil is mostly non-clayey, thereby minimising the risk associated with expansivity. The low permeability of these materials contributes to stability; however, if soft layers or silts/fangos occur, they must be assessed to prevent their use as a bearing stratum in the foundations.

The area exhibits high seismicity, recording around 200 events over 30 years with a maximum magnitude close to 4,4; therefore, the geotechnical study must incorporate this constraint into the structural design. In addition, the significant presence of gypsum and formations susceptible to karst phenomena makes it essential to thoroughly verify any possible cavities or dissolutions before defining any foundation, this being the main geotechnical control factor in the municipality.