Estudio geotécnico in Santo Domingo-Caudilla

In Santo Domingo-Caudilla, the subsoil is dominated by sandstones, conglomerates and flysch, which constitute the most common geotechnical base in the municipality. Alongside these materials, limestones, dolomites and marbles crop out frequently, providing a bedrock matrix of notable load-bearing capacity. The presence of compacted gravels and sands, although occasional, provides good conditions for shallow foundations. White or soft expansive clays and slate-like materials are marginal, minimising their direct influence; in general, the geological conditions favour direct foundation solutions, although the continuity and compactness of the load-bearing strata must always be verified.

Seismic activity in Santo Domingo-Caudilla is high, with around 200 events recorded over 30 years and a maximum magnitude of 5.1; therefore, seismic response must form a fundamental part of structural design. The localised occurrence of expansive clays is subordinate and its impact is very limited, especially under the current climatic conditions, reducing the risk of heave. As a priority constraint when undertaking geotechnical studies, seismicity represents the aspect of greatest relevance for the sizing and safety of foundations in any type of building.