Geotechnical study in Aínsa-Sobrarbe

In Aínsa-Sobrarbe, soils formed by sandstones, conglomerates and flysch predominate, accompanied by a significant proportion of limestones, dolomites and marbles. These materials exhibit high competence, providing favourable bearing capacity for shallow foundations provided that the stratigraphy does not show any signs of alteration. Areas with clays and hard marls, although less frequent, may imply local variations in bearing capacity. The generally low permeability of these soils ensures minimal water migration, although shallow aquifers restricted to local areas may exist.

Seismic activity in the municipality is very low, with a small number of events and insignificant magnitudes, which minimises this factor as a constraint on structural design. However, the notable presence of limestones and dolomites makes it necessary to carry out a detailed check of the possible existence of karst before executing the foundations, as karst processes can create voids and cause unexpected ground subsidence. In conclusion, the main geotechnical constraint for the area is the presence of karst, which must be thoroughly assessed in the preliminary studies before any foundation project is undertaken.