Sulfur in Drywall Causing Copper Corrosion in Homes

I have recently heard within our industry that the drywall coming out of China has high levels of sulfur in it which is causing all kinds of problems. One of the biggest areas has to do with the effects it is having on copper piping. My good friend and fellow colleague, Ron Bailey of Bailey Engineering (who specializes in sick buildings) sent me this:

"Some Florida homes have experienced blackening of copper pipes; often accompanied by pinhole corrosion. In some instances, odors are present as well.
Generally these symptoms are first noticed by a failure of the home's air conditioning evaporator (indoor) coil due to the blackening of the coil and pinholes resulting in the release of the refrigerant gas. The cause has been traced to Chinese manufactured drywall (gypsum) imported after the demand increased following the hurricanes of 2005. An Informational Release from the United States EPA Region 4 office, reported that drywall samples were placed in chambers with copper samples. It stated "copper turned black ;only in the chambers of imported gypsum. Microscopy testing conducted after 18 weeks showed pitting corrosion." The release also stated " the drywall is releasing these sulfur compounds after more than a year.""

Check out these articles for further information:

http://www.news-press.com/article/20081219/NEWS01/81219059/1075

http://news-press.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=200881220026