Geotechnical study in Alcora

In Alcora, substrates consisting predominantly of limestones, dolomites and marbles are found; these materials are characterised by high compactness and a notable bearing capacity. These rockier soils facilitate the design of shallow and deep foundations, although the secondary presence of sandstones, conglomerates and flysch may introduce localised variations in mechanical properties. In addition, there are areas with compact gravels and sands, which allow adequate transmission of loads to footings, and highly permeable aquifers that can influence the control of groundwater during the execution of works.

The municipality shows moderate seismicity, with 8 recorded events over 30 years and a maximum magnitude of 4.7, which requires incorporating seismic design criteria into structural design. As this is an area with a possible development of karst, it is essential to carry out a prior verification of cavities and dissolutions before founding, in order to prevent unexpected settlements. The absence of expansive clays rules out the risk of expansivity, and the presence of karstic cavities is the main conditioning factor at geotechnical level for any intervention.