Abstract: A universal material testing device which includes a frame; an actuator mounted on the frame for controlling a displacement of a sample to be tested; a load cell movably mounted on the frame and adapted to abut against the sample for detecting a force applied thereon by the actuator, the load cell producing a signal corresponding to the force detected; a signal conditioning unit for reducing input noise and for processing of the signal and executing specific tests by coordination of displacement control and load signals received for processing from the load cell; and a detachable chamber with humidifying media for humidification of the sample environment confined within the chamber and separated frm the sample so as to avoid potential damaging effects of humidity on the sample or on the device. The device is useful for determining certain material properties of a sample.