Estudio geotécnico in Santa Cruz de Bezana

In Santa Cruz de Bezana, the predominant geological substrate consists of limestones, dolomites and marbles, reaching a frequency of more than 70%. This type of material, of compact and competent nature, generally offers a high bearing capacity and allows direct or semi-direct foundations to be designed. However, any outcrops of expansive clays and zones with gypsum and salts must be considered, as these can imply differential behaviour. Sandstones, conglomerates and interbedded layers of compact gravels and sands, although present more specifically, may represent localised alternatives for support; however, they require specific characterisation due to their variability in grain size.

From a geotechnical standpoint, the seismicity in Santa Cruz de Bezana can be classified as notable, with 145 events in the last 30 years, although with a moderate maximum magnitude (Mmax) of 4. The dominant formations show generally low-permeability conditions, which minimises the spread of seismic vibrations, but the karstification risk associated with limestones and dolomites requires an exhaustive pre-foundation verification to rule out hidden subsidence or irregularities. The non-clayey substrate rules out significant risks of expansivity, with the possible presence of karst cavities being the main factor to be controlled during the geotechnical study phase.