Geotechnical study in Wall

In the municipality of Muro, fine sands and silts predominate, together with a significant proportion of limestones, dolomites and marbles. The combination of granular materials and carbonate formations influences the ground bearing capacity considerably: sands and silts provide intermediate characteristics, whereas limestones and dolomites offer a solid, suitable base for shallow or deep foundations, depending on the thicknesses present. The occasional presence of gypsum, anhydrite and salts implies a risk associated with dissolution processes in soils, which may affect the stability of foundations. In addition, the existence of moderately permeable aquifers must be taken into account when designing drainage systems and protection against the groundwater table.

With regard to general geotechnical behaviour, seismic activity in Muro is moderate, with 24 events over 30 years and a maximum magnitude (Mmax) of 3.2, which does not represent a relevant constraint for structural design. The non-clayey substrate rules out the risk of soil expansivity, which simplifies decision-making regarding foundation solutions. However, the possibility of developing karst phenomena in the limestones and dolomites makes it essential to carry out a detailed verification of the existence of cavities or prior dissolution before constructing foundations, since karst phenomena can compromise structural stability. Thus, the main geotechnical constraint in Muro is related to verifying karst processes and the presence of gypsum.