Geotechnical study in Ayala/Aiara

In Ayala/Aiara, substrates of limestone, dolomites and marbles predominate by a wide margin, accounting for more than 77% of the soils. They are known for their high mechanical strength and high bearing capacity—highly advantageous factors for the design of shallow or deep foundations, as required by the structural needs. These rocky materials are occasionally accompanied by sandstones, conglomerates and flysch, whereas softer formations, such as hard clays or silty sands, have only a marginal presence and do not significantly alter the overall behaviour of the ground, which usually shows low permeability and occasional shallow aquifers in certain areas.

Seismic activity in the municipality is very low, with barely 3 events over 30 years and a maximum magnitude of 2.4, so it does not represent a relevant constraint in structural design. However, the marked presence of carbonate rocks implies the potential for karst development; it is essential to verify the existence of cavities, underground conduits or unstable zones before foundation construction. The non-clayey substratum eliminates the risk of movements due to expansivity, making the detailed study of karst the main factor to consider in any geotechnical study in Ayala/Aiara.