Development of an Arduino-Controlled Freeze-Thaw Chamber for ASTM C672 Concrete Testing
Faculty Mentor Information
Jared Cantrell, Idaho State University
Presentation Date
7-15-2026
Abstract
Freeze–thaw deterioration is a significant factor affecting the durability and service life of concrete infrastructure in cold climates. Repeated freezing and thawing cycles can cause surface scaling, cracking, and internal damage, making laboratory testing essential for evaluating concrete performance. However, commercial freeze–thaw chambers used for standardized testing are often expensive, limiting their accessibility for educational institutions and small research laboratories. This project presents the design and development of a low-cost, automated freeze–thaw chamber using a commercially available chest freezer integrated with an Arduino Mega control system. The proposed chamber incorporates silicone heating pads, forced-air circulation, precision temperature sensors, and solid-state relays to automatically regulate freezing and thawing cycles. A programmable control algorithm monitors chamber conditions, controls heating and cooling operations, and records temperature data for analysis. The system is designed to simulate freeze–thaw conditions comparable to those used in ASTM C672 concrete scaling tests while remaining affordable and easy to construct. By utilizing readily available components and open-source electronics, this project provides a practical alternative to commercial environmental chambers and offers a valuable platform for concrete durability research, laboratory instruction, and undergraduate engineering education.
Development of an Arduino-Controlled Freeze-Thaw Chamber for ASTM C672 Concrete Testing
Freeze–thaw deterioration is a significant factor affecting the durability and service life of concrete infrastructure in cold climates. Repeated freezing and thawing cycles can cause surface scaling, cracking, and internal damage, making laboratory testing essential for evaluating concrete performance. However, commercial freeze–thaw chambers used for standardized testing are often expensive, limiting their accessibility for educational institutions and small research laboratories. This project presents the design and development of a low-cost, automated freeze–thaw chamber using a commercially available chest freezer integrated with an Arduino Mega control system. The proposed chamber incorporates silicone heating pads, forced-air circulation, precision temperature sensors, and solid-state relays to automatically regulate freezing and thawing cycles. A programmable control algorithm monitors chamber conditions, controls heating and cooling operations, and records temperature data for analysis. The system is designed to simulate freeze–thaw conditions comparable to those used in ASTM C672 concrete scaling tests while remaining affordable and easy to construct. By utilizing readily available components and open-source electronics, this project provides a practical alternative to commercial environmental chambers and offers a valuable platform for concrete durability research, laboratory instruction, and undergraduate engineering education.