Geotechnical study in Almonte

In Almonte, soils formed by limestones, dolomites and marbles predominate, accompanied by significant proportions of sandstones, conglomerates and flysch. These rock materials, being generally of high bearing capacity, allow conventional shallow foundations. However, the fine sands and silts that are occasionally present may require specific studies to prevent differential settlement if they are close to the surface. Gravels and compact sands, although infrequent, also provide good levels of support if their degree of compaction is adequate.

Seismic activity in the area shows moderate values, with 11 events over 30 years and a maximum magnitude of 4.1, which implies the need to follow the basic recommendations for seismic resistance, particularly in important buildings. The risk of expansivity is associated with the occasional presence of some non-expansive or dispersed clays within a non-clayey matrix, which requires local verification during the in situ survey. The main conditioning factor is lithological heterogeneity, which demands special attention in the characterisation of each site during the geotechnical study.