Geotechnical study in Subirats

In Subirats, the ground is mainly composed of limestones, dolomites and marbles, together with sandstones, conglomerates, flysch and granular materials such as fine sands, silts and compacted gravels. The predominant rock formations provide favourable bearing capacity for most projects, while the presence of sands and silts suggests the need to locally assess the density and the possibility of non-uniform settlement. Foundations can usually be supported safely on these materials, although soil heterogeneity means that each site must be geotechnically characterised in order to define the most suitable foundation type.

Seismicity in the area is moderate, with 17 recorded events over the last 30 years and a low maximum magnitude. Although this would normally not impose severe restrictions, it does require a minimum regulatory check. The non-clayey substratum rules out expansivity risks, which simplifies the selection of foundations. However, the possible development of karstic phenomena in the limestones and dolomites makes it mandatory to verify the presence of cavities or dissolution prior to construction. This aspect is the main geotechnical conditioning factor in Subirats.