"Chinese drywall" refers to an environmental health issue involving defective drywall manufactured in China and imported to the United States starting in 2001. Laboratory tests of samples for volatile chemicals have identified emissions of the sulfurous gases carbon disulfide, carbonyl sulfide, and hydrogen sulfide. These emissions, which have the odor of rotten eggs, worsen as temperature and humidity rise and cause copper surfaces to turn black and powdery, a chemical process indicative of reaction with hydrogen sulfide. Copper pipes, wiring, and air conditioner coils are affected, as well as silver jewelry. Homeowners have reported a variety of symptoms, including respiratory problems such as asthma attacks, chronic coughing and difficulty breathing, as well as chronic headaches and sinus issues.
The case name of the major lawsuit is MDL 2047, In re: Chinese-manufactured Drywall Products Liability Litigation, a suit in New Orleans.
Read more about Chinese Drywall: Contents, Background, Affected Locales, Sources, Federal Inquiries, Potential Causes, Potential Health Concerns, Scam Warnings, Lawsuits, Insurance Coverage and Tax Deductions, Radioactivity Concerns