Estudio geotécnico in Santoña

In Santoña, sandstones, conglomerates and flysch predominate, accounting for almost 58% of the formations, which provides a solid and favourable foundation for most foundations, as they offer good bearing capacity and low settlement. Outcrops of limestones, dolomites and marbles are also common; these materials have excellent mechanical properties but are susceptible to karst processes. Fine soils such as sands and silts occur occasionally, whereas anthropogenic fill and compacted gravels and sands are uncommon; therefore, in general, the foundation options tend to be standard, although punctual verification may be required in areas with looser soils.

Seismic activity in the area is notable, with 145 events over the last 30 years, although the value of the maximum magnitude (Mmax 4) is moderate and usually not critical for routine structural design. The presence of carbonate formations means that the possible existence of karst cavities must be examined thoroughly before carrying out the foundations, in order to avoid the risks of differential settlement or collapse. Since the substrate is non-clayey, the swelling potential is ruled out; the main geotechnical constraint is therefore the possible presence of karst, which must be analysed in particular detail as part of the geotechnical study in Santoña.