Kalk shelf life?

Son Of Skyline · #1 11-05-2003, 05:34 PM

I just tried mixing a bucket of kalk water with 1 year old kalk (i had it for about 1 year...got it from Shao. Not sure how long he had it). After 48 hours the water is still cloudy white. The last time I used this stuff was about 6 months ago and the solution would clear in less than 12 hours. How long does kalk powder usually last before it goes bad? It's been kept in a closed ARM media container unused for the past 6 months. Thanks.

Aquattro · #2 12-08-2003, 03:55 AM

Mason, check the pH if you can, and as long as the saturated mix is slightly over 12, I'm sure you're fine. I'm using the same kalk as you and don't have any problems.

pocilipora · #3 12-08-2003, 04:11 AM

Im using the same stuff also, works fine for me...

Son Of Skyline · #4 12-08-2003, 05:49 AM

Thanks Brad. I'll check the pH.

Quote:

Originally Posted by reef_raf

Mason, check the pH if you can, and as long as the saturated mix is slightly over 12, I'm sure you're fine. I'm using the same kalk as you and don't have any problems.

Son Of Skyline · #5 12-08-2003, 05:56 AM

Actually, do you guys notice that the solution never settles and always remains slightly cloudy white, or is it just me?

pocilipora · #6 12-08-2003, 06:14 AM

Mine mixes for 30min once a day and never gets completly clear, so I built a filter that takes out the remaining cloudieness right before my float valve.

Samw · #7 12-08-2003, 06:25 AM

Mason, I think anytime you mix it in an open top bucket, you will get the cloudiness. I use a home-made air-tight kalk dispensor hooked up to my osmolator. I add kalk and then shake like crazy. Eventually, I'd like to get a full blown kalk mixer/reactor.

Aquattro · #8 12-08-2003, 07:18 AM

I premix mine with 80 ml vinegar and dump that in my daily topoff. Never much cared whether it settled or not.

Son Of Skyline · #9 12-08-2003, 07:39 AM

I see...thanks guys.