Geotechnical study in Almoguera

In Almoguera, the subsoil is composed mainly of limestones, dolomites, marbles and gypsum, together with a significant proportion of sandstones and conglomerates. This lithological diversity generally provides favourable bearing capacity for shallow foundations, although the presence of salts, gypsum and anhydrite implies a potential risk of dissolution that must be analysed in detail when designing the structural supports. The compact gravel and sand present occasionally can form good settlement layers, whereas slates and schists, although less frequent, may locally limit the bearing capacity.

Seismicity in Almoguera is moderate, with 27 events recorded over 30 years and a maximum magnitude of 3.7, which requires analysis but without specific strengthening requirements for major earthquakes. The existence of a karstic environment makes it necessary to carry out a thorough assessment of possible voids before founding, since these can cause differential settlements or localised collapses. In addition, the absence of clayey subsoil rules out significant risks of expansivity. As the most determining factor, the possible presence of karstic cavities and the dissolution of gypsum require particular attention in any geotechnical study in the area.