Geotechnical study in Laguna de Duero

In Laguna de Duero, the dominant soils correspond to compact gravel and sands, with these extending over most of the municipality. This type of granular material, together with the occasional presence of fine sands, silts and some formations of sandstone and conglomerates, provides generally high bearing capacity and favourable conditions for shallow foundations, provided that homogeneity is verified. The existence of large aquifers, linked to the substrate’s high permeability, implies particular attention in projects where the groundwater level may interfere with the construction and durability of the foundation.

With regard to geotechnical risks, local seismicity is high, with more than 150 recorded events over three decades and a maximum magnitude reaching 4.7; this implies the need to incorporate seismic criteria into the design of foundations and structures. There are no relevant karst phenomena or outcrops of predominantly expansive clays, reducing the risk associated with significant volumetric movements, although subordinate presence may occur in specific sectors. The main constraint for the geotechnical study in Laguna de Duero is determined by seismicity and the need to coordinate the project with the presence of high-permeability aquifers.