Geotechnical study in Vacarisses

In Vacarisses, substrates formed by sandstones, conglomerates and flysch predominate, occupying approximately 87.5% of the territory, with occasional shales and schists. These lithologies tend to offer good bearing capacity and relatively stable conditions for foundations, although it is essential to assess their degree of weathering and any potential presence of unfavourable bedding. The generally low permeability of these materials can give rise to shallow local groundwater levels, which must be verified during the geotechnical study in order to select an appropriate foundation system.

With regard to geotechnical risks, the karst phenomenon must be considered, since the presence of karst makes it necessary to review possible cavities or instabilities before constructing any building. Expansivity does not pose a problem in Vacarisses due to the predominance of a non-clayey substrate, which eliminates this risk factor. On the other hand, seismicity is very low, with only 3 events in the last 30 years and a maximum magnitude of 2.8, so it does not represent a relevant constraint for structural design. The main aspect to check in the geotechnical study is the existence of karst processes that could affect the safety and stability of foundations.