Staubarten

Staubarten is a term used in German-language scientific writing to refer to classifications of dust, or dust varieties, defined by origin, composition, and physical properties. The word combines Staub (dust) with Arten (types). While not a formal universal taxonomic term, it appears in environmental science and materials literature as a descriptive concept for organizing dust types.

In practice, Staubarten encompasses categories such as mineral dust (silicates and other crustal materials), organic dust (pollen, microbial spores, plant fibers), metal-containing dust (ferrous and nonferrous metals), and composite or mixed dust. Classification typically considers particle size (for example PM10 or PM2.5 regimes), shape, solubility, hygroscopicity, and potential health and environmental effects.

Applications include occupational exposure assessment, indoor air quality studies, and atmospheric science. Researchers use Staubarten-like frameworks to supplement standard regulatory descriptors and to better communicate about dust hazards, origin tracing, and remediation approaches.

Related topics include dust, particulate matter, air quality, and environmental health.