Geotechnical study in Riogordo

In Riogordo, slates and schists predominate, together with sandstones, conglomerates and flysch, which provides a substrate with mechanical characteristics favourable for load transfer, but with generally low permeability. The occasional presence of compact gravels and sands may offer points with higher bearing capacity, although these must be verified due to their lateral variability. As a rule, the municipality’s rock soils allow solutions for shallow or direct foundations, except in localised areas where weathering of the boundary material makes these options unviable.

Seismic activity in Riogordo is classified as moderate, with 15 events in 30 years and a predicted maximum magnitude of 3.8; although it is not a severe structural constraint, it must be considered in the geotechnical study. Special attention is recommended to the potential development of karstic phenomena, given the presence of dissolution processes in the subsurface, in order to avoid possible subsidence before carrying out any foundation work. The substrate does not show risks associated with expansivity, so the main technical constraint lies in correctly identifying cavities or sinkholes associated with local karstification.