Geotechnical study in Villamayor de Gállego

In Villamayor de Gállego, the subsoil is characterised mainly by the presence of compact gravels and sands, followed by fine sands and silts, which provides good conditions for bearing capacity and allows for shallow or superficial foundations. The occasional presence of gypsum, anhydrite and salts implies a risk of dissolution and subsidence in certain areas, which should be taken into account when selecting the site for foundations, especially if the hydrogeological levels prove to be high. It is important to avoid direct foundation on bodies of water and, although limestones are less frequent, their appearance in the subsoil can influence overall mechanical behaviour.

Seismicity in the area is notable, with 68 recorded events in the last 30 years and a maximum magnitude of 4.8, which makes it necessary to include seismic criteria in the structural design of buildings. The non-clayey subsoil rules out problems associated with expansive soils; however, the possible presence of karst processes must be carefully verified before carrying out any foundation, given the potential for cavities and subsidence in soluble materials. The main constraint in Villamayor de Gállego lies in the interaction between dissolution and karst risks together with seismicity, which are priority aspects in the geotechnical study of the area.