EMSL Analytical offers testing solutions for imported drywall.
With numerous media reports of imported Chinese drywall causing unpleasant odors and damage to building materials EMSL Analytical has been busy testing samples from across the country.

The problem appears to be related to the presence of iron disulfide (FeS2 pyrite). Hydrogen sulfide (H2S), carbonyl sulfide, sulfur dioxide (SO2), and carbon disulfide (CS2) are also suspected as culprits. EMSL Analytical has recently developed a procedure that can accurately compare certain sulfur gasses contained in suspect drywall versus control samples.

Air sampling methods (such as EPA TO-15 and ASTM D5504) do not consistently identify spaces with other odorous drywall symptoms, such as odors, irritation, and copper corrosion. There are so many factors, including temperature, moisture, HVAC operation, etc., that affect what is present in the air that other sampling methods should be utilized. Bulk testing has proven to be the most reliable testing methods. EMSL can show that the material differs in composition from normal, non-problem drywall by XRF/XRD microscopy. This test alone may not tell the whole story.

Another important test is a copper corrosion test that EMSL has developed. For those important projects, the consultant should consider performing all of the tests listed above.

http://www.environmental-expert.com/resultEachPressRelease.aspx?cid=21001&codi=60585&lr=1

The Florida Department of Health recently launched a website to help owners indifty contamintated drywall both internally and domestic
http://www.doh.state.fl.us/environment/community/indoor-air/casedefinition.html

Chinese drywall found in Tampa homes

TAMPA – Toxic Chinese drywall has been discovered in several new homes in the Hampton Lakes subdivision in Tampa.

Builder Beazer Homes says 18 homes in the neighborhood appear to have the dangerous drywall.

Resident Robert Morris bought his three-story town home in the subdivision two years ago. At the time, it felt like the perfect buy. But he says it doesn’t feel that way anymore.

The coils on his air conditioner are black with corrosion. Morris says he knew little about toxic Chinese drywall until the letters started coming from Beazer Homes last month. The mounting air conditioner repair bills suddenly made sense.

http://www.myfoxtampabay.com/dpp/news/local/hillsborough/tampa_homes_chinese_drywall_082009

Respiratory Effects from Sulfate Particles – SO₂ reacts with other chemicals in the air to form tiny sulfate particles.  When these are breathed, they gather in the lungs and are associated with increased respiratory symptoms and disease, difficulty in breathing, and premature death.

Short-term Peak Levels
High levels of SO₂emitted over a short period, such as a day, can be particularly problematic for people with asthma.  EPA encourages communities to learn about the types of industries in their communities and to work with local industrial facilities to address pollution control equipment failures or process upsets that could result in peak levels of SO₂.

http://www.epa.gov/oar/urbanair/so2/hlth1.html