Geotechnical study in Vall d'Uixó, the

In Vall d'Uixó, substrates of limestones, dolomites and marbles predominate; these materials provide a high bearing capacity, which is advantageous for direct shallow foundations in most plots. The occasional presence of fine sands and silts, and to a lesser extent of sandstones or conglomerates, requires analysing the homogeneity and possible compaction of these soils, as they can affect the uniformity of settlements. The occasional finding of gypsum and anhydrites makes it necessary to consider the risk of dissolution, especially in the presence of water. The minor proportion of white/soft expansive clays does not represent a decisive constraint, since the predominant substrate rules out widespread expansivity problems.

The municipality's seismic behaviour is in a moderate category, with 14 recorded events over 30 years, but with a limited maximum magnitude. One aspect of particular relevance in the area is the presence of karstification in calcareous materials. Thus, before designing or carrying out foundations, it is essential to verify the existence of voids or underground dissolutions that could compromise stability. The main geotechnical constraint in Vall d'Uixó is therefore the thorough inspection of the karst phenomenon, rather than expansivity or seismicity.