Geotechnical study in Mahón

In Maó, the dominant ground conditions are formed by limestones, dolomites and marbles, accompanied in smaller proportions by sandstones, conglomerates and flysch. This type of bedrock substrate generally provides good bearing capacity, which favours direct foundation solutions in many cases. However, the occasional presence of fine sands and silts implies the need to assess in detail the compactness of these materials before founding, since they may exhibit a lower bearing capacity or increase ground deformability.

With regard to seismicity, Maó experiences a moderate level, with 24 events over the last 30 years and a maximum magnitude of 3.2—values that do not require extraordinary measures in structural design. It is nevertheless essential to take into account the possible development of karstic phenomena, given the frequency of limestones and dolomites, as the existence of cavities or dissolutions must be carefully assessed before any foundation is executed. The non-clayey substrate eliminates the risk of expansivity, so the main condition for the geotechnical study in Maó lies in verifying stability against karstic processes.