DIY Background - Epoxy Resin vs. Concrete

webcricket

webcricket

(So chill.) No wonder it's freezing
Mar 22, 2006
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Syracuse, NY
I'm researching doing a 3D styrofoam carved background for my 10 gallon tank. I'd like something pretty detailed and it seems like epoxy resin would be the way to go to preserve smaller details. However, I'm only able to find guides using concrete. Does anyone know of any guides for epoxy resin (or of a reason this stuff wouldn't work)? I worked with it once back in high school art class and it's been so long now I'd have no idea what to even purchase that would be aquarium safe also.
 
Can't remember the exact site offhand...

I got to it by Google..

DIY Aquarium Background


Lots to page through though.
 
Some people say the epoxy melts the styrofoam if it's not certain brands. Just my 2cents.

Also, at my local zoo, I spoke with one of the head aquarium keepers and they make most of their aquatic decos from wire designs, fiberglass mesh and i believe she said fiberglass putty too. I'll be getting some lessons from them in making these things in the future since they know I'm interested in helping now. Good luck and let us know how this goes!
 
concrete really isnt a good material to use since it has alot of limestone in it. It alos gives off heat until cured. I dont know how it would fare if u sealed it up with something, i would assume over time that the finish would come off. I would stay away from it as a material.

Fiberglass is more for the experienced, but a good material
 
concrete or cement can work well, but it needs to be cured for a long time (months) in water before it can be used in a tank, otherwise it drives the pH up like crazy.
 
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