Geotechnical study in Ayerbe

In Ayerbe, the dominant bedrock is mainly composed of sandstones, conglomerates and flysch, occasionally accompanied by fine sands, silts, as well as compact gravels and sands. These lithologies provide a good overall bearing capacity for shallow foundations, although in cases where fine sands and silts crop out it may be necessary to assess their degree of compaction and stability. Given the low average permeability of these materials, albeit with the possibility of finding deep aquifers, it is essential to study the presence and behaviour of water in the subsoil before defining the depth and type of foundation required.

Regarding seismicity, Ayerbe shows high seismic activity, with 200 recorded events over the last three decades and a maximum magnitude reaching 4.8, which makes it necessary to incorporate seismic design criteria into the structural calculations. In addition, the municipality has areas where locally predominant expansive clays are detected, which significantly increases the risk of differential movements in ground affected by them and makes it necessary to consider expansivity as a priority constraint for the project. The most determining factor in Ayerbe will therefore be the combination of notable seismic activity and local expansivity of clays.