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MAS Scientists Lead in Investigation of Chinese Drywall Concerns
Dr. Mark Rigler of MAS is working with Sen. Julie Quinn, of Metairie, Louisiana to address the health concerns and corrosion issues surrounding the use of Chinese drywall installed as a result of the re-building efforts following damage caused by Hurricane Katrina to residential homes and businesses.
Foul odors, headaches, sinus problems and damage to wiring and plumbing are but a few of the complaints associated with sulfur gases linked to Chinese drywall. The impact of this issue extends well beyond the State of Louisiana. Problems were first reported in Florida, but now extend across the sunbelt including a few western states and several states along the great lakes and are linked to the housing boom from 2004 to 2007. Concerned consumers are now calling for governmental action at the federal level (including involvement of the Consumer Product Safety Commission). Currently there are estimated to be in excess of 40,000 (contaminated drywall cases) in the country, of which only 1,100 have been filed.
The Problem
The big obstacle facing U.S. authorities investigating the matter is that the Chinese manufacturer isn't always clearly identified on the drywall. The U.S. imported roughly 309 million square feet of drywall from China between 2004 to 2007, according to the Gypsum Association (a trade group). While that is a fraction of the drywall used in the U.S., it is enough to build roughly 35,000 houses. The actual number of houses containing Chinese product is likely much higher, because many houses used a mix of domestic and imported drywall. Adding to the confusion is evidence that not all of the Chinese drywall used will lead to the reported sulfur gas problems.
The Answer
MAS scientists have developed an exclusive analytical methodology for identification of sulfur gas producing Chinese drywall. Unique to this method is the submission of small 2" x 2" drywall samples (resulting in less damage, quicker sampling and easier repairs). With minimum invasive sampling, the location of sulfur gas producing drywall can be pin pointed inside an impacted home - vastly reducing the need for unnecessary demolition. While other laboratories claim to be able to delineate between problematic and good drywall, this method stands alone producing reliable results that are both fast and economical.
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