5.1 This test method is suitable for research and development purposes and for field tests to determine the average macrotexture depth of a pavement surface. The knowledge of pavement macrotexture depth serves as a tool in characterizing the pavement surface texture. When used in conjunction with other physical tests, the macrotexture depth values derived from this test method may be used to determine the pavement skid resistance capability and the suitability of paving materials or finishing techniques. When used with other tests, care should be taken that all tests are applied at the same location. Improvements in pavement finishing practices and maintenance schedules may result from use of this test method.

5.2 The texture depth measurements produced using this test method are influenced by pavement macrotexture characteristics and not significantly affected by pavement microtexture. Pavement aggregate particle shape, size, and distribution are texture features not addressed in this procedure. This test method is not meant to provide a complete assessment of pavement surface texture characteristics.

5.3 The pavement macrotexture depth values measured by this test method, with the equipment and procedures stated herein, do not necessarily agree or correlate directly with other techniques of surface texture measurements.

Note 2: The pavement surface to be measured using this test method must be dry and free of any construction residue, surface debris, and loose aggregate particles that would be displaced or removed during normal environmental and traffic conditions.

1.1 This test method describes a procedure for determining the average depth of pavement surface macrotexture (see 3.1) (1)2 by careful application of a known volume of material on the surface and subsequent measurement of the total area covered. The technique is designed to provide an average depth value of only the pavement macrotexture and is considered insensitive to pavement microtexture characteristics.

1.2 The results obtained using this procedure to determine average pavement macrotexture depths do not necessarily agree or correlate directly with those obtained by other pavement macrotexture measuring methods (1-5).

1.3 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.

1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.