Abstract
Arid lands and some of their characteristics are reviewed. Properties of particles, and in particular of sand and sand size, are discussed. A concise account of the characteristics of sandstorms is presented. To this end, the movement of sand particles in saltation, by surface creep and in suspension is reviewed. Accumulation of blown sand particles is considered. Attention is drawn to a common misconception on dust storms and sandstorms. Concepts of wind energy extraction systems are outlined for the recovery and utilization of energy during sandstorm conditions. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.