copper question

[sharuq1]

I used a vinegar rinse on my 120g and a 33g (which is now a shrimp tank) both of which had Cu in them. I put the vinegar in the tank with RO and let the empty filter cycle it all night. After that I rinsed the tank with tap water, filled it with RO and used polyfilter in my canister. The tank tested 0 for Cu after that.

From reading(read it on RC) it is my understanding that Cu binds with Ca--hence getting rid of the Ca should get rid of the Cu. I don't recommend using a tank with Cu, just pointing out this method worked for me.

(Polyfilter claims to be able to filter out heavy metals from the water which is why I used it.)

[michika]

I've always heard and practiced the belief that copper is absorbed into the silicone. I've always stripped out the silicone on second hand tanks just in case they've had copper in them before.

[EmilyB]

I treated my large bowfront with copper when it was a fish only. Or maybe it was Cupramine, is that different? Anyway, I used a neutralizer of some kind. The tank was a successful reef tank, so it obviously worked. Twelve years ago though, so no can remember what it was called.....

[Myka]

Originally Posted by michika

I've always heard and practiced the belief that copper is absorbed into the silicone. I've always stripped out the silicone on second hand tanks just in case they've had copper in them before.

Me too. I just use an exacto blade and trim it out, then reapply the silicone. I've only done this on sumps though, not displays. Not that that matters much I would think.