55 gallon drum questions

[rob92]

I work at a printing company where I have easy access to lots of 55 gallon drums. I was wondering if theses would be safe to use to store RO water or anything for the aquarium if cleaned out properly.

The mixture inside consist of
Ethylene glycol
Tripotassium phosphate
Potassium silicate
& potassium hydroxide

If it would be safe how would you suggest cleaning them out

 

[SeahorseKeeper]

That mixture inside scares me when it comes to a reef tank. The part that scares me the most is the phosphate and silicates. I would be very concerned that it would contaminate the water.

I would look for a cheap food grade storage drum.

 

[rob92]

Yea I've been looking at the 55 gallon drums on line and also on craigslist and it's with they are way too much or they are located too far away. I was also thinking about the brute 55 gallon trash cans I've heard some people use them.

 

[Fin]

I am not a chemist, but I believe that Ethylene Glycol is an ingredient in anti-freeze and hydraulic brake fluid. That alone would discourage me from ever attempting to use those barrels for the storage of water for a reef tank.

 

[NC2WA]

I agree with all comments above..i would pass, just not worth the risk IMO..

you need something that is food-grade compatible, brute containers will work.

too bad you are not closer I have an extra 35 gallon container I would give to you for Free.

 

[rob92]

Thanks everyone I've decided that I'm probably just gonna use the brute 55 gallon trash cans. I think 3 will do.

One for the waste water (watering plants) with an overflow leading to a drain
One for RODI water
& one for saltwater

 

[Mtwreef]

You can find the same barrels but food grade for cheap on craigs list I got mine for 10 bucks each and they were clean

 

[rob92]

You can find the same barrels but food grade for cheap on craigs list I got mine for 10 bucks each and they were clean

I already looked on craigslist but they are too far away from me so that's out if the question