Geotechnical study in Cornellà de Llobregat

In Cornellà de Llobregat, fine sands and silts predominate, representing more than half of the surface formations, whereas gravels and compact sands appear with significant frequency. This composition indicates that the bearing capacity is usually adequate for light to moderate buildings, although special attention is required in areas with a high presence of silts and loose sands, due to their propensity for settlement and liquefaction under particular conditions. The low permeability of the ground limits the rapid drainage of water, which affects the selection and sizing of foundations, especially in projects involving shallow aquifers.

With regard to seismic activity, Cornellà de Llobregat records very low seismicity, with only about five events over thirty years and a maximum magnitude of 1.6, so the seismic influence on structural design is practically negligible. In addition, the municipality has no risk of expansivity, as the substrate is not clayey. Given the above, the critical aspect for the geotechnical study here is control of differential settlement and the possible presence of shallow groundwater levels.