Geotechnical study in Velilla de San Antonio

In Velilla de San Antonio, the dominant substrate corresponds to water-bearing masses and ground of high permeability, accompanied by the occasional presence of limestones, dolomites, gypsum and salts. The nature of the soils, especially in areas where gypsum, anhydrite and salts crop out, introduces a potential risk of dissolution, which can significantly affect the stability of foundations. In addition, the high proportion of expansive clays makes it necessary to study in detail the volumetric response of the ground in order to avoid problems arising from heave or shrinkage that could compromise bearing capacity. The foundation must be designed carefully, taking into account the possible presence of unsuitable materials and their interaction with the groundwater table.

Seismicity in the municipality is very low, with only 5 recorded events over 30 years and a maximum magnitude of 3, so its influence on structural design is limited. However, the existence of karstic ground requires specific verification prior to any foundation works, as underground voids or subsidence can be generated. The main technical constraint in Velilla de San Antonio is the high risk associated with expansive clays, combined with the possible presence of karst processes and soluble soils—factors that must be addressed from the initial phase of the geotechnical study.