These data contain 1) load string compliance mechanical data used to retrieve the absolute sample deformation (Compliance folder); 2) Acoustic emissions data (RawData_AEs folder); 3) Compaction data of the granular packs (RawData_Press folder). These data we used for the publication by Zorn et al., 2024 (https://doi.org/10.30909/vol.07.02.765783). A PDF document detailing further information of the contents of each folder entitled "Zorn_Compaction_Data_Overview" is provided. All data were collected and analysed at LMU Munich on samples from the Eifel Volcanic Field (Germany) and from the Krafla caldera (Iceland). The geographical location of the samples collected is of no relevance to this study, as the samples were selected for their physical attributes. All data were collected and analysed in 2023 and 2024. Loose fragments of volcanic rock from the Eifel Volcanic Field or Krafla caldera were placed in a metal cup and progressively loaded axially to a target load before either 1) removing the load (called "dynamic stressing tests"); or 2) holding the load for 6h or 5 days (called "dynamic followed by static tests"). All experiments were conducted using an Instron uniaxial press, and all displacement data are corrected for the deformation of the loading column (compliance). During each experiment, acoustic emissions sensors attached to the side of the cup to monitor cracking events These data were collected to understand the compaction behaviour of volcanic edifices that consist of interbedded layers of variably loose/coherent materials.