Geotechnical study in Palencia

In Palencia, the ground is made up mainly of slates and schists, representing more than 60% of the subsoil, which determines an average and homogeneous bearing capacity, with a tendency towards low permeability and some degree of surface water retention. Limestone, dolomites and marbles appear as a secondary feature and may show occasional zones of high bearing capacity, reinforcing, in a localised way, the stability for shallow foundations. However, the presence of conglomerates, sandstones and igneous substrata is minor, influencing little the overall behaviour of the ground.

Seismicity in Palencia is notable, with 57 recorded events over 30 years, although the maximum magnitude observed is 4. The presence of calcareous materials implies the possibility of karst-related developments; therefore, the verification of cavities or associated processes is essential before considering any foundation. As no expansive clays are present, the relative risk associated with expansiveness can be ruled out, leaving the main condition focused on detecting possible karst phenomena and on the seismic consideration during structural design.