Geotechnical study in Novelda

In Novelda, the predominant substrate is made up of sandstones, conglomerates and flysch, which provides a solid foundation for most foundations, although with generally low permeability. Occasional outcrops of gypsum, anhydrite and salts are also identified; these present dissolution risks that must be evaluated in detail before selecting the most suitable type of foundation. Fine sands and silts, although infrequent, require attention in order to avoid differential settlement, while the occasional presence of limestones and dolomites suggests the possible existence of underground cavities.

Seismicity in Novelda is very low, with only 6 recorded events over 30 years and a maximum magnitude of 3.9, which implies a low seismic constraint in structural design. Nevertheless, the development of karst processes is possible in the area due to the presence of limestones and gypsum, so the risk of collapse or subsidence must be thoroughly verified before proceeding with foundation construction. The non-clayey nature of the substrate virtually rules out risks of expansivity, with the main constraint being the assessment and control of the possible karst and the dissolution processes associated with gypsum and anhydrite.