Geotechnical study in Balazote

In Balazote, the predominant substrate is formed by compacted gravels and sands, which provides a solid foundation with good bearing capacity for building and allows for direct shallow foundations in most cases. The occasional presence of gypsum, anhydrite and salts introduces the possibility of dissolution processes, whereas the limestones and dolomites suggest the existence of carbonate-rich sectors where karst may occur. These aspects require particular attention when identifying the most suitable support level and in preventing differential settlement.

Seismicity in Balazote is very low, with a record of just 1 event in the last 30 years and an Mmax of 1.7, so it does not constitute a significant constraint for structural design. However, given the karstified nature of the ground and the frequency of materials susceptible to dissolution, verification of karst phenomena before constructing foundations is essential. The non-clayey substrate rules out the risk of expansivity, so the main geotechnical constraint is the possible presence of karstic and gypsum-related cavities.