Geotechnical study in Arbo

In the municipality of Arbo, sandstones, conglomerates and flysch predominate, accounting for 86.54% of the geological substrate. These materials, taken together, provide a competent base with good load-bearing capacity, although permeability is usually low or very low, limiting percolation and drainage in the deeper strata. The aquiferous ground and the occasional presence of specific water masses highlight the need to properly identify the levels of the shallow aquifer(s) before selecting the optimal foundation type for each project.

Seismic activity in Arbo is very low, with just 1 recorded event in 30 years and a maximum magnitude (Mmax) of 2.1, which rules out seismicity as a relevant factor in geotechnical design. As it does not present clayey substrates, the risk associated with expansive soils is eliminated, thereby stabilising any potential impacts on the foundations. The main factor focuses on characterising the groundwater table and selecting the founding depth, given the low-permeability properties of the materials present.