ISO 13473-5:2009

Overview

ISO 13473-5:2009 defines standardized procedures for measuring and characterizing pavement megatexture using surface profile measurements. The standard describes how to record a pavement texture profile with a profilometer, process the profile data, and calculate megatexture descriptors that quantify the average depth/level and spectral content of surface irregularities in the megatexture range. It clarifies the place of megatexture between macrotexture and unevenness and ensures compatibility with related standards for reliable, repeatable results.

Key topics and technical requirements

• Megatexture range: texture wavelengths from 50 mm to 500 mm (centre wavelengths 63 mm to 500 mm); typical peak-to-peak amplitudes 0.1 mm to 50 mm.
• Measurement principle: record a two‑dimensional surface profile (distance vs vertical displacement) and derive megatexture descriptors from the profile.
• Profilometer types: supports various sensor technologies (laser, light sectioning, needle tracers, ultrasonics) consistent with ISO 13473-3.
• Data processing: filtering, spectral analysis and descriptor calculation to extract megatexture indicators; addresses overlap/correlation with macrotexture and unevenness.
• Quality and uncertainty: procedures for estimating measurement uncertainty and ensuring meaningful, accurate descriptors.
• Reporting and safety: standardized test report content and safety considerations during field measurements.
• Informative annexes: example test reports/graphics, uncertainty examples and profile asymmetry guidance.

Applications and users

ISO 13473-5 is practical for organizations and professionals involved in pavement surface assessment and management:

• Road and highway agencies performing condition surveys and maintenance planning
• Pavement engineers and consultants evaluating surface defects (potholes, washboarding) and ride quality impacts
• Vehicle/tyre researchers and acoustics specialists studying tyre–road interaction, noise and friction effects related to megatexture
• Manufacturers and users of profilometers and surface-scanning equipment validating measurement performance
• Contractors and QA teams verifying surfacing works and rehabilitation outcomes

Practical uses include characterizing defect severity, supporting noise and friction studies, guiding maintenance prioritization, and providing consistent inputs for pavement performance models.

Related standards

• ISO 13473-1: Determination of mean profile depth (macrotexture)
• ISO 13473-2 / -3 / -4: Terminology, profilometer specifications and spectral analysis methods
• ISO 8608 and EN 13036-5: Related profile analysis and unevenness/texture procedures

Keywords: ISO 13473-5, megatexture, pavement texture, profilometer, texture profile, pavement measurement, surface profile, measurement uncertainty, ISO standards.