Destructive testing is a type of testing that is performed to evaluate the properties of a material or component by intentionally causing it to fail or to be damaged. Destructive testing is commonly used to determine the strength, ductility, toughness, and other mechanical properties of materials and components.

Destructive testing is typically performed using specialized equipment, such as tensile testers, impact testers, and hardness testers. These machines apply known forces to the material or component being tested, and measure the response of the material or component as it fails or is damaged. The results of the destructive testing are used to evaluate the properties of the material or component and to compare them to the specified requirements.

Destructive testing is an important part of the quality control process in many industries, including manufacturing, construction, and aerospace. It provides valuable information about the mechanical properties of materials and components, and can help ensure that they meet the required specifications and will perform as intended. However, destructive testing is not always practical or cost-effective, as it involves damaging or destroying the materials or components being tested. As a result, nondestructive testing methods are often used instead, when possible.