Acrylic absorption?

djwolfe · Apr 15, 2019

I have been running a freshwater acrylic tank for several years, and it was decorated with various semi-precious gem stones: jade, agate, amethyst, petrified wood, etc.

some of these may have had trace amounts of metal minerals as well.

My question:
Thinking of Transitioning the tank into saltwater. Could the acrylic have absorbed any metals (with those rocks sitting in it for years) that could potentially harm my saltwater water quality?

Thanks!

Mjrenz · Apr 16, 2019

djwolfe said:
I have been running a freshwater acrylic tank for several years, and it was decorated with various semi-precious gem stones: jade, agate, amethyst, petrified wood, etc.

some of these may have had trace amounts of metal minerals as well.

My question:
Thinking of Transitioning the tank into saltwater. Could the acrylic have absorbed any metals (with those rocks sitting in it for years) that could potentially harm my saltwater water quality?

Thanks!

I wouldn't think it would be a problem, especially if you clean the tank well before transitioning to salt and then use a high quality carbon. If you want to be extra safe you could always do an ati test after it's cycled and before you add any livestock.

crusso1993 · Apr 16, 2019

My friend, @Lowell Lemon , has been working with acrylic and building custom aquariums and sumps for more than 30 years. He may be able to give some valuable input.

Lowell Lemon · Apr 16, 2019

djwolfe said:
I have been running a freshwater acrylic tank for several years, and it was decorated with various semi-precious gem stones: jade, agate, amethyst, petrified wood, etc.

some of these may have had trace amounts of metal minerals as well.

My question:
Thinking of Transitioning the tank into saltwater. Could the acrylic have absorbed any metals (with those rocks sitting in it for years) that could potentially harm my saltwater water quality?

Thanks!

This is just conjecture but acrylic absorbs some water and it seems to be about 1-2% if my my memory is correct. I honestly believe the minerals would pose no threat to a saltwater tank. Sea water contains every element in some trace level so no problem there. Acrylic does not seem to absorb chemicals used for treatment of fish disease like methalene blue or copper there is that advantage.