This unique experimental testing system is a customized solution used to study the behaviour of rock under various dimensional and compressive stress regimes (σ1 ≠ σ2 ≠ σ3). This fits to the research goals of geothermal energy researchers, hydrologists, petroleum reservoir engineers and researchers in the mining section, geophysics and geotechnical sectors. The systems are capable to test a wide range of materials from granite to mudstones and also for post-failure regime of high-strength brittle rocks.

Polyaxial rock testing systems are designed to induce stress on cubic samples via three independent controlled principal axes (σ1 ≠ σ2 ≠ σ3) up to 600 MPa. The sample chamber can house cubic samples up to 300 mm and has the option to be equipped with a temperature control up to 200 °C as well as a pore pressure device up to 210 MPa and the ability to have continuous acoustic emission recording, acoustic velocity and permeability (transient or steady state) measurements.