Tests show higher sulfur, strontium levels in Chinese drywall

MANATEE — Chinese drywall contains higher levels of sulfur and strontium and emits volatile sulfur compounds at a higher rate than domestic drywall samples, according to early test results released today.

However, limited air sampling found little or no levels of sulfur gases in homes containing Chinese drywall, according to several federal agencies. The testing also detected low levels of two irritating compounds, including formaldehyde, in homes with and without Chinese drywall.

The levels of formaldehyde and acetaldehyde were high enough to potentially worsen health conditions such as asthma, but were present only when air conditioners were not working or turned off, the Consumer Product Safety Commission told a Congressional committee. When air conditioners are turned on, the formaldehyde and acetaldehyde levels were at levels found to not cause health symptoms, according to a summary report obtained by the Bradenton Herald.

During the Congressional briefing, Sen. Bill Nelson, D-Florida, expressed continued frustration at the pace of the investigation.

“If you hear impatience in my voice, you are an accurate judge,” he told CPSC officials.“What I am reflecting is people’s concerns, their financial devestation, health effects”

A CPSC official urged patience, saying science needs time to determine the root of the issue.

“We’d like to be able to give you an answer that we know is 100 percent, siad Lori Saltzman, director of the agency’s hazard identification and reduction office. Unfortunately, forensic investigation does take time. We want to get you the right answer.”

Saltzman said additional test results are expected in November, which Nelson said “I simply don’t think (is) happening fast enough.”

The higher sulfur and strontium levels mimic those found in earlier testing by Florida health officials, but federal officials said they were not at high enough levels to pose a radiological risk.

Some speculate those elements in Chinese drywall are emitting noxious gases, especially in humid environments, that are causing widespread homeowner reports of foul odors, corroded metal and headaches, runny noses and other health problems.

Testing on the effect of those gas emissions on copper and other metal is ongoing, the CPSC said.

The initial results, plus results from other tests still being conducted, are expected to help officials determine the potential health impacts of the Chinese drywall and develop a standard protocol for determining the presence of Chinese drywall, officials said.

Lesley Clark of the Herald’s Washington, D.C. bureau contributed.

This story was originally published October 29, 2009 at 12:00 AM with the headline "Tests show higher sulfur, strontium levels in Chinese drywall."