Estudio geotécnico in Villabrágima

In Villabrágima, the predominant geological materials correspond to limestones, dolomites and marbles, accompanied by compact gravels and sands. These formations provide a good bearing capacity for foundations, although they may show some heterogeneity due to the occasional presence of gypsum, anhydrite and salts, which entail a risk of dissolution and require special attention during characterisation of the ground. The low general permeability of the substrate facilitates control of the groundwater table, which favours foundation stability, although at depth significant aquifers may exist.

Seismic activity in Villabrágima is high, with more than 150 events over 30 years and a maximum attainable magnitude of 4.7, so seismic action must be considered without fail in the structural design of new buildings. In addition, there is potential for karst development in the limestone and dolomitic levels, which implies the obligation to verify the presence of cavities or signs of dissolution before defining the depth and type of foundation. The non-clayey substrate rules out the risk of expansivity; however, the main geotechnical limiting factor is the possibility of karst processes combined with the notable seismicity.