NO3:PO4-x and Alkalinity

cosmith71 · Jul 1, 2016

Can the acetic acid in NO3 PO4-x contribute significantly to alkalinity? Randy has an article that seems to suggest so.

--Colin

recess62 · Jul 1, 2016

Following

Randy Holmes-Farley · Jul 2, 2016

When added as acetic acid, it slightly "depletes" alkalinity until the acetate is consumed by bacteria, giving back the alkalinity.

When added as acetate, it adds slightly to alkalinity when dosed, and adds more when consumed.

So no organic carbon dosing product that I know of should result in long term lowering of alk, and some may raise it.

cosmith71 · Jul 2, 2016

OK, thanks! NO3PO4x is acetic acid and methanol, so it wouldn't explain my high alkalinity problems.

Randy Holmes-Farley · Jul 2, 2016

cosmith71 said:
OK, thanks! NO3PO4x is acetic acid and methanol, so it wouldn't explain my high alkalinity problems.

That's correct that it would not. Ethanol is also a main component of NOPOX, much more than methanol.

cosmith71 · Jul 2, 2016

Ah, did not realize that. It's not on the MSDS! I guess I should look up the DIY recipes and save some money.

Thanks again!

--Colin

Randy Holmes-Farley · Jul 3, 2016

It is mostly acetic acid (as in vinegar) and ethanol (as in vodka) plus small amounts of isopropanol and methanol. Methanol is likely listed because it is more toxic than ethanol or isopropanol.

cosmith71 · Jul 4, 2016

I see! I found a recipe. I'll try a home brew batch next time.

Thanks again!

--Colin

Randy Holmes-Farley · Jul 4, 2016

Your'e welcome.

Happy Reefing.

joaocdestro · Jul 11, 2016

cosmith71 said:
I see! I found a recipe. I'll try a home brew batch next time.

Thanks again!

--Colin

Can you tell-me the recipe?

jd371 · Jul 11, 2016

joaocdestro said:
Can you tell-me the recipe?

375 ml 80 proof vodka
500 ml vinegar (5% acetic acid)
125 ml RO/DI water

joaocdestro · Jul 11, 2016

jd371 said:
375 ml 80 proof vodka
500 ml vinegar (5% acetic acid)
125 ml RO/DI water

and about: small amounts of isopropanol and methanol?

jd371 · Jul 11, 2016

I got this from another site and that's all that's listed in the recipe. I'll be mixing up some and using it myself as soon as the Nopox is finished. I have all the ingredients anyway so why not make my own.