Geotechnical study in Comares

In the municipality of Comares, soils derived from slates and schists predominate, occupying around 68% of the ground, which gives rise to a relatively competent and stable substrate, although generally of low permeability. These characteristics favour the formation of shallow aquifers in specific areas and condition the load-bearing capacity of the ground, resulting in behaviour that is usually suitable for shallow foundations unless discontinuities or advanced weathering are present. Where occasional limestones, dolomites and marbles occur, it is possible to find localised areas of greater stability, while granular materials, such as compact gravel and sand, provide good load-bearing capacity when they are well cemented.

With moderate seismic activity (11 events in 30 years and maximum magnitude of 3.7), seismicity does not represent a relevant structural constraint for routine design in Comares. In addition, the absence of clayey substrates eliminates the risk of expansiveness. In summary, the most determining factor in local geotechnical studies is the variability in the compaction of slaty and schistose materials, making it essential to carry out adequate identification of the continuity and the degree of alteration of the substrate.