I used the GE 100% silicone sealant to create baffles in the sump. It says UV resistant but not mildew resistant. It is the little red tube that was in Lowes right next the acrylic/glass cutting center. When I called GE, they said, none of their products are safe for aquarium and that I should take it all out. I thought 100% silicone is safe to use. Do I need to get it all off and go with the one that has the aquarium safe label on it?
GE 100% Silicone safe for aquarium?
- Thread starter sree
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It is fine. GE does not want the liability of labeling their product for aquarium use or aquarium construction.
It doesn't say anything. All it says is 100% silicone sealant. It also says translucent, oustanding adhension, quick setting, permanently flexible and uv-resistant.
One the back side, it does say during curing process ( first 12hrs), it will release ammonia and methanol.
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I don't believe it's meant for under water use but if your only using it for the baffles it should be fine I used the same brand got it from homedepot and saw no I'll effect just let it Cure for at least 72 hours for a strong bond
That is neither the 1 or the 2. That is the 100% that they sell in the acrylic section and is perfectly fine to use. I guess GE hasn't figured out that you cant use silicone on acrylic LOL. The one and the two both have mold inhibitors so I'm still skeptical about aquarium use with them and always opt for the silicone you posted.
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Why take the chance when aquarium silicone is so easy to find and worry-free? (asked rhetorically).
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If you need a lot, the GE stuff is a fraction of the price and the GE-1 has been used in the hobby for a while and is known to be okay.
This one doesn't say I or II. The response from GE is " <span style="font-family: Arial"><span style="color: #0000ff">This is NEITHER Silicone I or Silicone II. This is a special product we make exclusively for use on Lexan and other plastics.</span></span>
"
The label also says it is safe to use this on marine appplications above the water level.
What do you think?
Not sure what to tell you - if I give an opinion and I'm wrong, my name is mud.
I've used GE Silicone 1 for years - have it in my sell tanks, with no problems.
Manufacturers don't want the liability of being accused of their product killing livestock, hence they won't say either way.
The stuff labeled for aquarium use is safe, of course but au01st is right - the home-grade stuff is much cheaper, particularly if you're doing a whole tank.
If it's just for a baffle or whatnot, then it's worth the 2 or 3 extra dollars to get aquarium specific stuff and not have to worry about it.
I don't know if what you used is OK or not because I have no direct experience with it.
Jenn
I've used GE Silicone 1 for years - have it in my sell tanks, with no problems.
Manufacturers don't want the liability of being accused of their product killing livestock, hence they won't say either way.
The stuff labeled for aquarium use is safe, of course but au01st is right - the home-grade stuff is much cheaper, particularly if you're doing a whole tank.
If it's just for a baffle or whatnot, then it's worth the 2 or 3 extra dollars to get aquarium specific stuff and not have to worry about it.
I don't know if what you used is OK or not because I have no direct experience with it.
Jenn
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See the link in my signature. The tank is still under construction, but that silicone will hold baffles in place as long as there isn't too much stress on them, and it should be safe to use as long as you let it cure for at least three days.
Thanks Jenn.. I really really appreciate all the help you are providing.. I just grabbed the product since it was sitting right next to the acrylic section in Lowes and it said 100% silicone. I already used it and installed the baffles. Now I am not sure if I need to remove all those silicone and re-do it. If others here have used the exact same product and had no issues, then I am sure that I will have no issues either.
