Some drywall imported from China between 2002 and 2006 seems to cause problems. In the past year or so, homeowners began reporting odors, health conditions and destruction of electronic wiring that they attributed to the drywall. Federal and state officials are trying to determine whether the drywall can be scientifically linked to these issues.

The Florida Department of Health tested a Chinese drywall sample earlier this year and said it gave off a sulfur smell when exposed to heat. An American-made drywall sample did not.

The Environmental Protection Agency said in May that a Chinese drywall sample it tested contained sulfur, strontium at levels 10 times as high as in drywall made in the United States and two other organic compounds generally found in acrylic paint. Strontium compounds are used in fireworks. Strontium is a silvery metal that rapidly turns yellowish in air.

No tests have linked the Chinese drywall to health problems. The Florida Department of Health conducted air-quality tests in the past week in a Parkland house, but the results aren’t expected for several months. If you suspect your home has bad drywall from China and want to file a complaint, call the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, 800-638-2772. Or visit the Florida Department of Health Web site, www.doh.state.fl.us and click on the Imported Drywall link.

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