Estudio geotécnico in Santillana del Mar

In Santillana del Mar, soils are predominantly formed by limestones, dolomites and marbles, accompanied in smaller proportions by fine sands, silts and some levels of sandstone and flysch. These carbonate formations generally provide a bearing capacity that is normally suitable, although it is essential to check for the presence of fractures, voids or alteration processes associated with them. The overall low permeability of these ground conditions limits water loss, but the presence and arrangement of shallow aquifers may locally influence the behaviour of the soil and the selection of the most suitable type of foundation.

Seismicity in the municipality is notable, with 145 events over 30 years and a maximum magnitude of 4, so it is recommended that this factor be analysed in detail in structural projects. The confirmed presence of karst implies the need for thorough site investigation, as the existence of cavities or dissolutions may compromise foundation safety. The non-clayey substratum rules out problems associated with expansive soils, so the main condition to be assessed is the possible karstification of the rock mass before any construction work.