Stäube

Stäube is the German term for dust or dust particles, typically referring to small solid particles suspended in air or present on surfaces. In scientific and occupational contexts, the word is used to distinguish various dust types by origin, composition, and particle size. The plural form Stäube is commonly used when discussing several dust categories or sources within a given environment.

Dust types are often categorized by composition and origin, such as mineral dust (for example silica, cement, rock dust), organic dust (wood, grain, textile, bacterial or fungal spores), metal dust, and pharmaceutical or cosmetic powders. A key distinction is size: inhalable dust refers to particles that can enter the nose or mouth, while respirable dust refers to finer particles that can reach the gas-exchange region of the lungs. Typical occupational health literature uses these fractions to assess risk and exposure.

Exposure to Stäube can cause acute and chronic health effects, including irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat; chronic respiratory conditions; and, for certain substances like crystalline silica and some wood dusts, increased risk of cancer. The hazard depends on composition, particle size, concentration, and duration of exposure. Dust explosions also pose a risk in industries handling combustible powders.

Control measures include local exhaust ventilation, enclosure of processes, wet methods, good housekeeping, and appropriate personal protective equipment. Exposure limits are set by national and international bodies and are typically expressed as permissible or indicative concentrations for inhalable or respirable dust. Measurement often uses gravimetric analysis of air samples collected on filters, following standardized methods.