Aquarium Silicone

[Hannys_Papa]

I just siliconed something on my tank hood (cutout part around the filter - put another piece of plastic across so there is less evaporation/ chance of a fish escape) and let it dry for the past 1-1.5 hours. Its dry to the touch - but still somewhat flexible - i assume the material under the surface hasnt cured yet.
Is it safe to put it back on top of the tank ? Its the hood so its not submerged - but water from the bubbler in the back might splash on it.

 

[Jericho]

You should be fine as long as it is not structural.

 

[Hannys_Papa]

No its not structural. I just wondered about anyhing getting into the water that shouldnt... but at the same time dont want to leave the hood off forever. Thanks

 

[telecubby]

there are toxins present that are quite intense when wet(poison to fish)

 

[kveeti]

Is there still a vinegar smell? That wouldn't be good. Silicone needs to totally cure and humidity (as it will get above the aquarium) will affect curing time. I believe silicone needs 24 hours to cure. You could tape a new, clean garbage bag or something over top in the meantime.

Example, GE states of their silicone:

A 3/16–inch bead of silicone “normally” has these tool, tack and cure times:
* GE Silicone II products provide 6 to 8 minutes' tooling time, 30 minutes before they are tack–free, and 24–hour cure time (1/8– to 1/4–inch thickness at 70 degrees F).