Resumen
In this work, the geotechnical characterization and behavior of clays as a product of carbonatesdecalcification is presented, using the town of Gijón (NW Spain) as a case study. The subsoil ofthis town is composed of an important clay layer originated by chemical alteration of limestones anddolomites. The studies made on a wide number of compiled samples allow us to establish the currentgeotechnical properties of the clays. Also, the aptitude of the materials in relationship to shallow foundationshas been studied. The results confirm that these cohesive materials, the common laying levelfor building foundations in the urban area, exhibit mechanical deficiencies such as reduced bearingcapacity, and the appearance of remarkable consolidation settlements.
