Geotechnical Characterization for Territorial Planning of a Special Economic Zone at a University Campus in Ecuador

Abstract

Special Economic Zones (SEZs) facilitate heightened free trade logistics, enabling companies to expand their operations and product development within a nation. This study seeks to geomechanically characterise a pilot area within the Special Economic Zone Development Zone (ZEDE) at ESPOL Polytechnic University, Ecuador. The area has been marked by limited information concerning the geotechnical properties of the soil and rock formations. The goal of the study is to inform referential zoning for constructions, thereby fostering sustainable development of businesses and industries in the area. The methodology utilised in this study was threefold: (i) an inquiry into existing data and an on-site inspection, (ii) a geophysical campaign encompassing Vertical Electrical Soundings, seismic refraction, and geotechnical characterisation for result correlation, and (iii) an assessment of slope stability, on-site response spectrums, soil profile classifications, safety factors, and construction risk zoning. The study area, approximately 28 ha, was characterised by soils and rock formations, such as lapilli tuffs and tuffaceous shales, with resistive loads reaching up to 26.10 MPa. These geotechnical attributes permit the construction of structures exceeding four stories. The integration of geological and geotechnical data revealed that 75% of the study area presents low to medium construction risk related to instability, thereby indicating suitable areas for territorial planning. The methodology proposed in this study provides a replicable tool for application across the ZEDE, facilitating the creation of strategies for a land-use plan within an innovative university campus. Future large-scale studies could incorporate hydrogeological analysis, evaluation of environmental impact, and the development of mitigation plans for anthropogenic activities.