Geotechnical study in Xirivella

The municipality of Xirivella shows a marked predominance of fine sands and silts, which conditions the bearing capacity of the ground for foundation design. These lithologies, being the majority and associated with high permeability due to the presence of extensive and productive aquifers, require analysis of grain-size characteristics and the possible risk of liquefaction in saturated areas, especially in zones close to water bodies. The foundation design must take account of the compressible behaviour of these materials, evaluating both consolidation and the possible presence of high groundwater levels.

As regards seismicity, Xirivella is located in an area with moderate seismic activity (27 events over 30 years and a maximum magnitude of 3.4), which implies that seismic effects should be monitored, although their structural impact is limited for conventional buildings. There are no risks associated with karst or with highly expansive soils under typical conditions in the municipality, although expansive clays may occur in a subordinate manner; their potential must be verified only in specific areas. High permeability and possible hydrogeological impacts constitute the main geotechnical constraint to take into account in Xirivella.