Geotechnical study in Fields

In the municipality of Campos, the predominant substrate consists of expansive white or soft clays and carbonate materials such as limestones, dolomites and marbles. This combination implies that, although there are areas with soft soils susceptible to deformation, there are also extensive stretches of hard sediment that provide a higher bearing capacity, facilitating shallow foundations in these sectors. However, the occasional presence of fine sands, silts and some gravel levels, together with overconsolidated clays and marls, can cause local variability in the ground’s response to structural loads, which is why it is essential to carry out a detailed investigation at each specific location.

From a geotechnical point of view, Campos lies in a region of moderate seismicity due to the 24 recorded events over the last 30 years, although the maximum magnitude observed (Mmax 3.2) does not imply strict requirements for earthquake-resistant design. The subsoil is not predominantly clayey, ruling out expansivity risks, which is a favourable aspect for foundation safety. However, due to the significant presence of carbonate materials, the existence of karstic phenomena must be carefully verified, as they can affect ground stability and require foundation solutions adapted to possible voids or underground cavities.