Particle size and X-ray diffraction data for surficial samples collected on Etosha Pan, Namibia

This data release provides particle-size and X-ray diffraction (XRD) data of sediment samples collected from dust emission "hot-spots" at Etosha Pan, Namibia. The dataset supports the investigation of the mineralogical, hydrological, and climatic controls on atmospheric dust emissions from ephemeral lake beds, which are globally significant sources of mineral dust aerosols. The particle-size data characterize the abundance of fine, highly emissive sediments susceptible to aeolian transport, while the XRD results validate mineral endmember estimates derived from satellite spectral analyses. By documenting both the physical and mineralogical properties of surface sediments, the data enable robust assessments of how evaporite crust formation and subsequent disruption by high winds contribute to dust emission variability. This comprehensive dataset facilitates improved understanding of surface crust mineralogy and its role in dust dynamics, offering a valuable resource for researchers aiming to refine dust source identification, characterize emission processes, and enhance regional and global dust emission models in dryland environments.