VISTA, Calif., Feb. 18, 2010 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- EcoBlu Products, Inc., (OTCBB:ECOB) announced today that it has begun testing drywall samples with its partner, RealTime Laboratories (RTL), from a 300-unit condominium complex in South Florida to determine the presence of harmful bacteria, which may have led to the displacement of dozens of residents. RTL's patent pending process uses DNA testing for sulfur producing bacteria in contaminated drywall samples. Because some of the condo owners involved are also filing lawsuits, the name of the condo community is not being released.
Additionally, RealTime Laboratories has published a study in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences on February 5, 2010. The study and research appeared in the article "Isolation of Sulfur Reducing and Oxidizing Bacteria Found in Contaminated Drywall," http://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/11/2/647/pdf , and is authored by an associated team from RealTime Laboratories, Dallas, TX, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, and NeuroTest, Inc., Pasadena, CA, ProLab, Westin, Florida, and Embark Scientific, Austin, TX.
The research team, led by Dennis G. Hooper, M.D., Ph.D., consists of multiple scientists knowledgeable in DNA developmental techniques and hydrogen sulfide effects on humans as well as the environmental impact of these findings.
EcoBlu, in conjunction with RTL, have taken random samples from a 300 plus unit housing project suspected of contaminated drywall and performed extensive DNA testing of the samples in the laboratory. Samples identified as contaminated were treated with EcoBlu's technology and results demonstrated inhibition of corrosion of copper wire which has been linked to the presence of bacteria producing hydrogen sulfide gas, as deemed by the Florida Department of Health. RTL's testing protocol is very extensive utilizing a patent pending DNA process for identification of the bacteria. RTL and EcoBlu have developed a quality assurance process that will maintain a chain of custody for field application that may eliminate the need to remove all the contaminated drywall.
Hooper says the peer-reviewed research demonstrated that sulphur reducing and iron oxidizing bacteria have been isolated in contaminated drywall from homes in South Florida. Apparently, these types of bacteria have been reported in scientific literature as being able to live in ocean waters surrounding erupting volcanoes and in gypsum mines. Since these organisms are able to live in such harsh environments they produce their energy using a chemical process that emits hydrogen sulfide gas ("rotten egg smell") as a by-product of their life cycle. Gypsum is a main ingredient in drywall and the RTL's study demonstrated the presence of sulphur producing bacteria in contaminated drywall.
Some studies, compiled by various government agencies, indicate that the hydrogen sulfide gas found in contaminated homes may be too low to affect human health. Other studies, including environmental health studies, have different conclusions. The research paper by RTL cited studies that indicated that sulfide levels found in contaminated homes could be detrimental to human health.
About EcoBlu Products, Inc.
EcoBlu Products, Inc. is a manufacturer of proprietary wood products coated with an eco-friendly chemistry that protects against mold, fungus, rot-decay, wood ingesting insects, termites and fire with EcoBlu's FRC™ technology (Fire Retardant Coating). EcoBlu products utilizing BLUWOOD™ and FRC™ technology is the ultimate in wood protection, preservation, and fire safety to building components constructed of wood; from joists, beams and paneling, to floors and ceilings.
The Company is committed to the development, marketing and sales of environmentally-responsible building materials. EcoBlu products are ready to deliver the winning edge to builders and the environment with its sustainable green product line.
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Safe Harbor statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995: The statements in this release relating to completion of the acquisition and the positive direction are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Some or all of the results anticipated by these forward-looking statements may not occur. Factors that could cause or contribute to such differences include, but are not limited to, contractual difficulties that may arise, the failure to obtain necessary approvals, the future market price of EcoBlu Products, Inc. common stock and the ability to obtain the necessary financing.