Sep 15 2009
Chinese Drywall
It has a peculiar acidic smell like wet paint. The emitting sulfur gases are also described as a sour or rotten egg odor. Faucets and showerheads become pitted or turn black. Copper pipes, electrical wiring and air conditioners corrode. Residents have complained of eye and skin irritations, nosebleeds and frequent ear and upper repertory infections.
100,000 homes mostly built in 2006 and 2007 may be affected. The drywall is being investigated by numerous agencies, including the U.S. Consumer Product safety Commission, The Environmental Protection Agency, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention along with state health departments. Several are due to report their findings in August and September. If the agencies conclude a “substantial” electrical, fire or health hazard exist, they could issue a recall or other action.