Physical test

A physical test is a qualitative or quantitative procedure that consists of determination of one or more characteristics of a given product, process or service according to a specified procedure. Often this is part of an experiment.

Physical testing is common in physics, engineering, and quality assurance.

Purposes
Physical testing might have a variety of purposes, such as:
 * if, or verify that, the requirements of a specification, regulation, or contract are met
 * Decide if a new product development program is on track: Demonstrate proof of concept
 * Demonstrate the utility of a proposed patent
 * Provide standard data for other scientific, engineering, and quality assurance functions
 * Validate suitability for end-use
 * Provide a basis for Technical communication
 * Provide a technical means of comparison of several options
 * Provide evidence in legal proceedings

Performance testing
Some physical testing is performance testing which covers a wide range of engineering or functional evaluations where a material, product, or system is not specified by detailed material or component specifications. Rather, emphasis is on the final measurable performance characteristics. Testing can be a qualitative or quantitative procedure. Many acceptance testing protocols employ performance testing e.g. In the stress testing of a new design of chair.

Examples of performance testing

 * Structural testing: building and Construction Performance Testing
 * Fire protection (ASTM D176)
 * Packaging Performance (hazardous materials, dangerous goods, ASTM D4169)
 * Performance Index for Tires (ASTM F538)
 * Performance Test Code on Compressors and Exhausters (ASME PTC 10 - 1997)
 * Personal protective equipment performance
 * Several Defense Standards
 * Wear of Textiles (ASTM D123)