Abstract A method is described for rapidly screening candidate materials used in severe thermal shock applications. The method involves electron beam heating the surface of specimens using a thermal flux equal to that experienced during actual service operation. Two methods of electron beam radiation are described. In one method, the electron beam is swept across a narrow path with the specimen translated across the beam. In the second method, the specimen remained stationary while the electron beam was repeatedly rastered over a square-shaped area. Similarity of thermal shock damage produced on rocket engine turbine blades during thermal shock tests and during engine firings indicates that computer-controlled electron beam radiation can be used for determining thermal shock resistance of turbine blade materials.