MMLR...anyone try it?

[argan]

I've made two batches of DIY rock, cured for about 4 weeks in fresh, and 1st batch is in my tank. works real good and cheap, but raises ALK quite a bit at first. Starting to grow corraline and worms now. For my next batch I'l be using the method with Water softener salt in the mix for more porousness. (found on RC, ULTIMATE DIY rock thread) That is the one draw back i found, not as many little holes. I got around that on a few pieces by drilling tho.


here is some, cave worked good

[Glennrf38]

I made a batch last year and plan on making some more starting next month when its warmer outside.It takes a while but the end results can be great especially if you are trying to get specific shapes and sizes.

[CRAP! Another Hobby]

ARGAN...Looks like you used the oyster shell recipe. Do you remember what ratio of cement to oyster shell?? I tried a batch last night at a ration of 2:3 (cement to shells) but it looks too fragile. So today i thought i would try to crush the shell pieces more into sand (burned out my food processor in the process ) Monday I am going by a place that has type 50 Portland cement. So tomorrow will be when I start another batch of small pieces.

GLENNRF38...keep me posted when you think you might be making more. Maybe we can get together and make a sh#t-load of it at once!

I think I have some nylon screen laying around. Maybe I'll dice that up and add it to my mix for extra strength.

[Glennrf38]

Sounds good to me. I have got the fine salt pellets/crystals. I got them at the local feed store. The most common mix is 1 part cememnt to 3 parts other stuff. It stays pretty fragile for about 1-2 weeks until the concrete starts to cure. The stuff I made last year broke apart for a week or so then it was and has been fine.

[iansfishy]

so can i cure this in the lake that my house sits on?

[Glennrf38]

i put mine in a garbage can with a powerhead in it. Changed water every week or so.

[argan]

I don't go by ratio, just mixed it so it looked good to me then formed it in some damp oyster shells for a nice top layer. I also used Lava rock inside the pieces for lighter weight.

[CRAP! Another Hobby]

GLENNRF38...Awesome! Maybe by then my first couple of batches will be ready. I'll bring the cement!!

[Glennrf38]

Kewl cuz I forgot to bring mine in the house last time I did it LOL

[Starry]

I made a few batches up about a month ago and should be almost cured. The smaller pieces I put in the toilet tanks in the house (several 100% wc's daily), the larger ones in a plastic tub I used the 1 cement 3 salt 1 sand mix and am very happy with the result. My only regrets are I couldnt get the white cement, and I think smaller salt pellets would have been better. Will post some pics tomorrow. They aren't anything fancy, just base rock.