Estudio geotécnico in Walls of Nalón

In Muros de Nalón, the dominant geological substrate is composed of slates and schists, which accounts for around 70% of the municipality’s soil. These low-permeability materials usually provide adequate bearing capacity for shallow foundations, although the occasional presence of sandstones and conglomerates may introduce heterogeneity within the ground profile. It is essential to appropriately characterise the stratigraphy in order to define the optimum foundation depth and prevent possible differential settlement problems. The existence of surface water bodies must also be taken into account in the hydrogeological analysis during the geotechnical study.

Muros de Nalón exhibits high seismicity, with more than 150 recorded events over 30 years and a maximum magnitude (Mmax) of 4.2, which implies that the dynamic behaviour of the ground must be carefully considered in structural design. Although the substrate is not clayey and, therefore, the risk of expansivity is ruled out, the area’s karst potential requires specific verification to rule out or identify voids before founding. The most relevant factor in this municipality is the prior inspection for karstification, combined with the seismic-resistance assessment of the structures.