Geotechnical study in Castrillón

In Castrillón, the predominant substratum is formed by slate and schist, metamorphic materials that generally provide bearing capacity suitable for standard buildings due to their density and stability. The low presence of limestones, dolomites and marbles, together with very small proportions of fine sands and silts, reduces the heterogeneity of soil types, although there may be localised layers with different behaviour. It is essential to verify the continuity and competence of these materials in order to define the most efficient foundation type, avoiding surprises due to possible intercalations of soft soils.

Seismic activity in the municipality is very low, with only one significant event in the last 30 years and a low maximum magnitude, so it does not represent a relevant constraint for the projects. However, the existence of karst associated with the limestones and dolomites, although minor, requires that the presence of cavities or dissolution be checked in advance before carrying out foundations. Given the non-clayey nature of the substratum, the risk of expansivity is ruled out in the area. In this way, the main focus should be on the possible impact of local karst-related phenomena during the development of the geotechnical study.