Geotechnical study in Alfacar

In Alfacar, slate and schist substrates predominate, followed by the significant presence of limestones, dolomites and marbles. These soils, which are compact in nature and generally of low permeability, usually provide adequate bearing capacity for shallow foundations over most of the area. However, in specific locations, there are fine sands, silts, and some units of white expansive or soft clays. It is important to highlight that there are areas with muds and peats of deltaic origin, which should be avoided as a support level due to their low strength and high compressibility.

Seismicity in the municipality of Alfacar is very low, with just 2 recorded events over 30 years and a maximum magnitude of 1.5, which minimises this factor in geotechnical design. However, the marked presence of calcareous formations implies the possibility of karst development, so it is essential to check for potential cavities before any foundation project. The non-clayey substrate rules out the risk of significant expansivity; however, the main geotechnical constraint in Alfacar lies in verifying karst and avoiding areas with muds or peats.