Geotechnical study in Almadén de la Plata

In Almadén de la Plata, geotechnical substrates are predominantly slates and schists, followed by granite, gneiss and other igneous rocks, with both groups accounting for more than 75% of the materials in the subsoil. These hard lithologies provide good bearing capacity and stability against settlement, making shallow/foundations viable provided that the ground is sound and free from alteration. The minor presence of sandstones, conglomerates and layers of mud or deltaic peats implies that these latter areas must be carefully assessed, avoiding direct foundation support on deposits of mud or peats due to their low strength and high potential for deformation.

Seismic activity in the area is very limited, with barely five events in the last thirty years and a low maximum magnitude (Mmax 1.7), so seismic risk does not condition the structural design. Although the substrate is mostly non-clayey, ruling out the risk of expansivity, particular attention should be paid to the possible development of karstification, especially in areas where the local geology suggests it; it will be necessary to verify the existence of cavities or dissolution prior to foundation works, since the presence of karst is the main geotechnical factor governing the municipality.