55gal drum question

[withoutaclue]

Not sure if this is the right place for this question but here goes. I have access to a few 55g plastic drums that once contained diesel exhaust fluid (DEF). Is there anyone with some chemical knowledge here who can tell me if this can be used for water storage? They would get a good pressure washing before being used.

 

[disc1]

As long as brand new DEF is all it was, I wouldn't be too afraid. Everything there should be water soluble and should come out with your power wash.

 

[withoutaclue]

Yes they have only had DEF in them (refilled but that is all), will pick up one to get my live rock started and one for water storage. Thanks for the info.

 

[96slowbra]

i can't remember if DEF actually has ammonia in it, or if that is a by product of running through exhaust. so might even speed up your cycle time...

 

[withoutaclue]

DEF is basically water/urea, with a pile of other things thrown into the mix. Never thought about the speeding up of the cycle time.

 

[disc1]

If there was ammonia (there shouldn't be I'm pretty sure its a combustion product) it would wash away and wouldn't leave a trace for the cycle.