Environmental Forensics Tests Chinese Drywall
Analytical Chemistry Techniques Used to Find Source of Contamination
Oct 30, 2009
In the USA, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has received nearly 2000 reports across 30 states, Puerto Rico and the District of Columbia regarding problems with Chinese drywall. Homeowners have experienced health issues and corrosion of copper pipes and metal electronics in homes built after 2003. Many of these homes were built in Florida and Louisiana after damages from hurricanes like Charley and Katrina in 2004 and 2005 and used drywall imported from China.
A multiagency task force was formed to investigate these complaints. The task force consists of groups from the Consumer Product Safety Commission, Centers for Disease Control, US Environmental Protection Agency, Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry and various state health departments. Chinese drywall testing using techniques by environmental forensic scientists will help determine if the drywall is contaminated and causing these problems.
Health Complaints Allegedly Related to Defective Chinese Drywall
According to the CDC, people living in homes containing drywall made in China complain of several common problems such as:
- itchy skin and eyes
- shortness of breath
- asthma attacks
- runny noses, bloody noses and sinus infections
- headaches
- cough.
Structural Complaints from Homes with Chinese Drywall
Many people with Chinese drywall report issues with the air in their homes smelling like sulfur or rotten eggs. Some say the air smells as if a match has been recently struck. This seems worse in areas with high humidity
Other consumers have noticed problems with electronic components turning black, particularly air conditioners. Electronic devices like video games and televisions as well as appliances like refrigerators and dishwashers may also be corroded.
Chinese Drywall Testing Using Environmental Forensics Techniques
Environmental forensics is an up-and-coming field in forensic investigation which identifies sources of pollutants or contaminants in air, water and soil. In the case of Chinese drywall, environmental forensics aims to determine if the drywall is the source of problems in the affected homes. Analysis will also determine the chemical composition of the drywall and what particular agent might be causing the damage. Air quality analysis is used to measure particles in the air that can contribute to symptoms and metal damage. Fire safety and electrical investigations are also taking place.
Preliminary Investigative Report Finds Sulfur in Drywall
Forensic chemistry testing has shown higher levels of sulfur and strontium in Chinese drywall than is found in other drywall materials. The Chinese drywall also emits higher levels of sulfur gas than other types of drywall. These were in vitro tests using drywall not installed in homes, but may provide information to help account for the rotten egg smell reported by homeowners.
Ten of the affected homes in Florida and Louisiana have undergone air quality testing which revealed normal levels of sulfur gas. Formaldehyde and acetaldehyde were found in homes with and without Chinese drywall. This preliminary evidence will now be used for testing a larger sample of homes. Long term study results are expected to be released in June 2010.
What to do if a Chinese Drywall Problem is Suspected
Consumers who feel their homes are contaminated by Chinese drywall should contact CPSC to file a drywall-related complaint.
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