I made an aluminum hood for my small tank, condensation has made the underside black, I have read that aluminum can have a bad effect on fish; however the tank has been running for a long time with no ill effects. Has anyone had bad experiences with aluminum?
Aluminum in tanks
- Thread starter Ryan2
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You could also try cleaning it up again, then putting several coats of polyurethane clear coat on it to keep it from oxidizing(like every polished aluminum automotive wheel). Not sure if it would cause any issues if it hasn't already.
Black??? I think it is just dirt. Aluminum does oxidize, but should not turn black. Take if off and clean it.
Aluminum oxide (i.e. the oxidized form of aluminum) is white. But you can't really see it, so it's probably got algae or dirt on it, and that's why it's turning black.
And the only thing I can think of that would make it bad for fish is its acidity. When it dissolves in water in high enough concentration it can make it pretty acidic. So if you're REALLY worried about it, check your pH.
And the only thing I can think of that would make it bad for fish is its acidity. When it dissolves in water in high enough concentration it can make it pretty acidic. So if you're REALLY worried about it, check your pH.
The black is dirt, but aluminum oxidizes in a form that is easily transferred to water, whereas clear coating encapsulates the aluminum entirely in polymer, sealing it from the water/air and the water/air from it.
From what I understand aluminum is safe and stainless steel is iffy.
For instance, if you use a stainless steel mesh to grow your moss all the moss will die, but the moss do fine with aluminum.
For instance, if you use a stainless steel mesh to grow your moss all the moss will die, but the moss do fine with aluminum.
