Concerns about new tank

[gixxer600]

I was just given a large 220RR tank and was looking forward to setting it up as a new reef tank for myself but i was just informed that it has had copper in it and was wondering if i test for the amount what is to much and is there anyway i can reduce or get rid of it all together. Also can i remove the old silicon and replace it with new. it is a marineland 220 glass tank by the way. Thanks for the help.


Mathew

 

[jennm]

Personally, I wouldn't worry about it. I've seen plenty of tanks re-used that have had copper, and never seen an issue.

*IF* there was copper leaching out of the silicone, it would be in such minute amounts it wouldn't matter. Copper is a trace element - and it's present in many of the supplements people use - in *trace* amounts.

I sold about 40 used tanks last year, most of which became frag tanks - no issues, and there had been a problem with copper, I'd surely be hearing about it.

I'd be more worried about the liability of re-sealing such a large tank, and the leak potential, than any possible copper leaching.

I'm sure others will disagree but in my experience, the whole "copper scare" is just a myth.

Jenn

 

[jonboyb]

Can silicon even absorb copper? I know LR does.....but I don't think the tank would concern me one bit if it were mine.

 

[gixxer600]

Jenn i really appreciate the advice it raises my spirits back up and that means alot.

 

[jennm]

Well I'm sure there's somebody out there who will disagree with me - I've seen many people be concerned and either scrap a tank or pass on buying it because of it.

If the silicone did absorb the copper one would never be able to get a zero reading on a copper test of the water after removing copper post-treatment.

Here's some literature:

http://www.wetwebmedia.com/curemovalfaq2.htm">http://www.wetwebmedia.com/curemovalfaq2.htm</a>

[IMG]http://www.wetwebmedia.com/curemovalfaqs.htm">http://www.wetwebmedia.com/curemovalfaqs.htm</a>

It does mention that rock and sand will leach copper and likely should be replaced, but does not indicate that there should be any long-term issues with the tank proper.

Jenn

 

[down and outman]

Why not put a layer of fresh silicone over the old? That ought to seal it up.

 

[hackman72]

Jenn's correct here but for peace of mind, you could always run a poly-filter while it cycles

 

[mockery]

down and outman;458119 wrote: Why not put a layer of fresh silicone over the old? That ought to seal it up.

New and old silicone don't bond together as far as I know.

 

[jennm]

down and outman;458119 wrote: Why not put a layer of fresh silicone over the old? That ought to seal it up.

Not a good idea...

 

[johnr2604]

I'm with Jenn on this. Although copper will stain the silicone I've never had a problem with it leaching into the water on past tanks I've used. Like she said though, I'm sure someone will disagree but I'm just speeking from expierience.

I've also been known to scrub tanks out with dawn dishwashing soap with no problems