Is it possible to regenerate metasorb?

[Cory]

Just curious is its possible to regenerate Metasorb by two lityle fishes. Would soaking it in hydrochloric acid do anything?

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley Verified Community Expert]

I'm not sure what the structure is exactly, but very strong acid may weaken the metal/chelate interaction and might allow desorption. The problem is it may be hard to know if it worked or not without some careful tests.

 

[Cory]

I'm not sure what the structure is exactly, but very strong acid may weaken the metal/chelate interaction and might allow desorption. The problem is it may be hard to know if it worked or not without some careful tests.

What kind of tests would be necessary? Even if it disnt work, would it still be safe in the tank after acid treatment?

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley Verified Community Expert]

What kind of tests would be necessary? Even if it disnt work, would it still be safe in the tank after acid treatment?

I can't be 100% sure it isn't going to begin to fall apart in strong acid, but i expect it will be OK.

By test I mean either analyze the solid material for metals before and after exposure to acid, and possibly retest its ability to bind them again (or just the latter).

 

[Cory]

I can't be 100% sure it isn't going to begin to fall apart in strong acid, but i expect it will be OK.

By test I mean either analyze the solid material for metals before and after exposure to acid, and possibly retest its ability to bind them again (or just the latter).

So it shouldnt release the metals back in the water once the strong acid is used?

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley Verified Community Expert]

So it shouldnt release the metals back in the water once the strong acid is used?

Many chelators are far weaker at low pH, potentially releasing the metals. If the material is not damaged, it goes back to normal at normal pH.

 

[Cory]

Many chelators are far weaker at low pH, potentially releasing the metals. If the material is not damaged, it goes back to normal at normal pH.

So when i put it into the tank after regeneration it wont release more metals and kill my tank?