Estudio geotécnico in La Rinconada

In La Rinconada, the dominant geological substrate is made up of gypsum, anhydrite and salts, present in 72.55% of the territory, which introduces important considerations for the soil bearing capacity and the choice of foundation. These materials, together with the occasional presence of limestones, dolomites and marbles, as well as sandstones and conglomerates, generally exhibit low permeability; however, they highlight the risks of dissolution associated with gypsum, anhydrite and salts, which may affect the stability of foundations if an exhaustive geotechnical study is not carried out. It is essential to avoid shallow foundations on areas susceptible to dissolution and to verify the depth and extent of any possible near-surface aquifers hosted in these materials.

The municipality’s seismicity is very low, with only one event recorded in the last 30 years with a maximum magnitude (Mmax) of 1.7, so this factor does not significantly condition the structural design. However, given the karstified nature of the surrounding area, it is essential to check for cavities or zones of dissolution before carrying out any type of foundation, since karst can cause subsidence or localised collapses. The low expansivity, confirmed by a non-clayey substrate, rules out swelling-related problems. The main geotechnical constraint in La Rinconada is determined by the risks associated with the dissolution of gypsum and karst phenomena—matters that are a priority in any geotechnical study carried out prior to construction.