støv

Støv is the Norwegian word for dust, the collection of fine solid particles suspended in air or settled on surfaces. It ranges from microscopic particles to larger grains and is a component of ordinary indoor and outdoor environments.

Dust is composed of minerals (soil and rock particles), organic matter (skin cells, hair, textile fibers, pollen, mould spores, insect debris), soot, and trace chemicals. The exact composition varies with location and activity.

Natural sources include soil erosion, volcanic eruptions, wildfires, and sea spray; human activities include construction, combustion, manufacturing, and agriculture. Indoor dust often accumulates from outdoors, plus indoor sources like fabrics, dander, and cosmetics.

Health and environmental aspects: inhalation of støv can irritate airways, trigger allergies, and contribute to respiratory diseases. Particulate matter with small aerodynamic diameter (PM2.5, PM10) is commonly used to assess risk. Sensitive groups include children, the elderly, and people with asthma. Dust deposition can affect ecosystems and contribute silt to water bodies; dust clouds can influence climate by scattering sunlight.

Management: regular cleaning with damp methods, use of good filtration such as HEPA air cleaners and vacuum cleaners with filters, proper ventilation, humidity control, and avoiding unnecessary generation of dust by minimizing clutter and using low-dust materials.