Covered Kalkwasser

[Gatorpa]

So i searched here but couldn’t find it.

I seem to remember years ago reading that once kalkwasser was mixed it should be covered, there was a possible reaction with ambient air. Is this correct? If so what is the result if it’s left in covered for ATO use?

 

[Miami Reef]

It doesn’t need to be covered. It will form a calcium carbon layer on top which will protect the rest of the container from coming in contact with CO2.

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley Verified Community Expert]

I think it is best covered and unstirred because that slows the entry of CO2.

when I studied it, a thin layer of CaCO3 did form that also protects it (as mentioned above), but over time sheets fell to the bottom of the liquid and the process starts over.
I stored mine in Brute cans with the lid on.

 

[Gatorpa]

I think it is best covered and unstirred because that slows the entry of CO2.

when I studied it, a thin layer of CaCO3 did form that also protects it (as mentioned above), but over time sheets fell to the bottom of the liquid and the process starts over.
I stored mine in Brute cans with the lid on.

side question, is there any draw back to dosing kalkwasser at night I don’t have a refug and it seems logical to dose the replacement water(kalkwasser) at night.

Ca+ and additional Alk are dosed during photoperiod with more alk dosed early in the period as that’s when the pH is of course lowest..