Geotechnical study in Güevéjar

In Güevéjar, the ground is made up mainly of limestones, dolomites and marbles, which account for the majority of the geotechnical substrate. These carbonated materials generally provide good bearing capacity for shallow foundations, except for possible locally altered zones. White expansive clays constitute the second most relevant lithology, although the predominant presence of hard, resistant soils reduces the risk of differential settlement. It is important to avoid founding on deltaic muds and peats, given their compressible behaviour and low strength, as well as to take extra precautions in localised areas with gypsum and salts, where dissolution phenomena may occur.

The seismic activity recorded in Güevéjar is high, with a count of 200 events over 30 years, although the maximum magnitude observed is moderate (Mmax=3.8), which necessitates considering stability-prevention measures in structural design. There is no risk associated with clay expansiveness, as the substrate is predominantly non-clayey. No significant problems linked to karstification are identified either. Consequently, the main factors to control in the geotechnical study focus on avoiding foundations on soft soils and ensuring accurate characterisation in areas with soluble materials.