Laboratory observed data from the uniaxial compression tests on samples exposed to humidity variation

A custom static loading frame with integrated climate chambers was used to conduct these experiments in the Rock Physics and Mechanics Lab at ETH. The system controls air temperature and humidity within a climate chamber, and allows us to monitor them throughout the duration of the test with humidity and temperature sensors insulated from the surrounding air.

An Epsilon Model 3442RA1 averaging longitudinal extensometer, and Epsilon Model 3544 circumferential extensometer were used to track strains on the sample. In addition, we employed an EN AW-6082 T651 aluminium cylinder into the identical compression arrangement and testing protocol to our granite specimen, to characterize the response of the extensometers to temperature and humidity. Environmental conditions, extensometer-measured displacement, along with applied load, piston displacement, collected during these tests are included in this dataset. --> In order to evaluate the effect of ambient humidity on both elasticity, and strains within an unweathered intact granite, we conducted two uniaxial compression tests on a Herrnholz granite cylinder exposed to ‘staged’ and ‘continuous’ humidity variation.