Geotechnical study in Castellet i la Gornal

In Castellet i la Gornal, the predominant subsoil is formed by limestones, dolomites and marbles, which implies the presence of rock materials with high bearing capacity, suitable for shallow and deep foundations. Crushed gravel and compact sands are also found, favouring the transmission of loads, together with smaller proportions of overconsolidated clays and sandstones. The predominance of rock materials reduces the problem of differential settlement; however, the occasional presence of hard clays requires a localised characterisation of the ground in order to check how they behave under load.

Seismic activity in this municipality is moderate, with 10 events recorded over 30 years and a maximum magnitude of M3, which does not constitute a relevant structural constraint. The geological setting is conducive to the development of karst phenomena due to the abundance of carbonate rocks; therefore, it is essential to investigate the possible existence of cavities or dissolution processes before designing the foundation. As the subsoil is non-clayey, there is no risk of expansivity, with karst identified as the determining factor in decision-making for the local geotechnical study.