Estudio geotécnico in Sant Martí de Centelles

In Sant Martí de Centelles, the dominant subsoil is made up of white/soft expansive clays, limestones, dolomites, marbles and, likewise, sandstones, conglomerates and flysch with occasional occurrences of gypsum, anhydrite and salts. These materials generally exhibit low permeability, although the presence of shallow aquifers is possible due to lithological alternations. The significant presence of limestones and dolomites indicates variable bearing capacity, normally favourable for foundations, provided that the thicknesses and strengths are correctly characterised. The appearance of gypsum, anhydrite and salts requires special attention due to the potential risk of dissolution, which may compromise foundation stability.

Seismic activity is classified as very low, with a low historical maximum magnitude, so this factor does not represent a relevant constraint in structural design. The non-clayey nature of the subsoil also rules out risks associated with soil expansiveness. Nevertheless, the development of karst features in limestones and dolomites must be carefully verified before defining the foundation type, since the existence of cavities can cause localised instability and differential settlements, conditioning the geotechnical approach of any project in the municipality.