Estudio geotécnico in San Bartolomé

In San Bartolomé, the subsurface is composed mainly of granite, gneiss and other igneous rocks, which provide a solid base with high bearing capacity, favourable for the design of conventional shallow (direct) foundations. Compact gravel and sand are also found in relevant proportions, contributing good stability, although the occasional presence of urban fill may entail local variability that should be analysed in detail before any work. The bedrock substrate, together with the sands and gravels, enables a very good response to structural loads, minimising any significant differential settlements.

As regards seismicity, with a single event in 30 years and a maximum magnitude of 4.4, the seismic risk in San Bartolomé is very low and does not significantly affect the usual structural design. There is no karst risk and no problems associated with expansiveness in the studied soils are identified. The main constraint for the geotechnical study lies in the correct identification and characterisation of fill areas and in controlling the presence of fine sands or silts, especially for selecting the foundation support level.