In order to determine whether zirconium or zirconium alloy is suitable for use in the Naval Reactor Program, the material is subjected to a variety of tests. Chemical analyses for twenty elements are required, as well as the determination of the tensile properties, hardness, corrosion resistance in high-temperature water or steam, radiography, and sonic testing. A discussion of the various methods currently in use for these tests will be given which will include a critical review of the analytical methods, both chemical and spectrographic.