Geotechnical study in La Matanza de Acentejo

In La Matanza de Acentejo, a subsoil is predominant, formed by granite, gneiss and other igneous rocks, which provides a base with high mechanical strength and excellent bearing capacity for foundations. As these materials are massive and have low alteration, they usually allow direct foundation solutions and minimise the occurrence of differential settlements, which enables safe and efficient design for residential or industrial projects. In addition, the presence of permeable formations with aquifers located at the contacts between strata should be studied in order to prevent possible problems arising from variability in the water table level.

With regard to seismic hazard, La Matanza de Acentejo shows moderate activity, with 11 events over 30 years and a maximum magnitude of 2.2; this parameter is of little relevance in structural design. There are no risks of karst phenomena or of expansivity, since the subsoil does not contain clayey components. The main constraint of the geotechnical study in the area is usually related to characterising the contact between formations to prevent interference with aquifers and to ensure hydric stability throughout the service life of the building.