Hi! I'd like to make my own aquarium decoration--something very tall with multiple levels. I'd like to avoid the weight of rocks, so I was wondering if I could use ceramics? Assuming I can get access to a kiln, what sort of clay and what sort of glaze would be aquarium-safe? Are there any other issues I should be aware of when making my own clay decoration? Thanks!
DIY clay decorations
- Thread starter LeahK
- Start date
I'd imagine most kiln-fired ceramics are fine as they are composed mostly of silica and other covalent-bonded compounds.
If you're worried about them dissolving over time and changing the water chemistry glaze them; that will seal the pourus ceramics from the water.
If you're worried about them dissolving over time and changing the water chemistry glaze them; that will seal the pourus ceramics from the water.
Unglazed clay is inert and should be fine in your tank. If you want to use a glaze, avoid any with copper-, titanium-, chromium-, cadmium-, lead-, or other heavy metal-based pigments. Iron and carbon pigments should be fine. If you're not sure, don't use it!
Any glaze that is food-safe is probably also aquarium safe, but better to stay on the safe side and avoid the pigments listed above. I suspect high-fired glazes would be safest.
Any glaze that is food-safe is probably also aquarium safe, but better to stay on the safe side and avoid the pigments listed above. I suspect high-fired glazes would be safest.
Thanks for the feedback! I've decided on an easier option: I think I'll use silicone to glue together clay plant pots of various sizes, into some sort of structure. I think I can still get the multi-tiered effect I want without having to mold my own piece and fire it.