Respirable dust

{
  "id": "MLC-T-CHM-010263",
  "term": "Respirable dust",
  "field": "Chemistry",
  "definition": "The fraction of airborne dust small enough to reach the gas-exchange region (alveoli) of the lung, defined by a sampling convention with a 50 percent cut-point at an aerodynamic diameter of 4 micrometers. Particles larger than about 10 micrometers rarely get beyond the upper airways. Prolonged inhalation of respirable crystalline silica or coal dust causes pneumoconioses such as silicosis.",
  "synonyms": [
    "respirable particles"
  ],
  "subject": "Chemistry and Human Health",
  "references": [
    "PAC, 2007, 79, 1153. 'Glossary of terms used in toxicology, 2nd edition (IUPAC Recommendations 2007)' on page 1301 (https://doi.org/10.1351/pac200779071153)"
  ],
  "url": "https://mlchart.com/terminology/chemistry/respirable-dust/"
}