Copper traces

[i2go]

I used a 10g tank as a QT and I used copper in it, and i want to use it as a refugium to add to my 25g nano cube. How can i make sure all the copper is eliminated? If I can?

 

[Zoophile]

If you used sand or rock in the QT, discard all of it. Run some Polyfilter in it and it will change color in the presence of copper if you've got any left.

 

[jbaty]

I would not use it at all if you are planning on having any corals in the tank. Copper can get into the sealant that is used on the tanks and will "leak" into the water over time.

So just keep using it as a QT tank and with the price of 10g tanks being cheap.. just go pick one up and a LFS It will save you some headaches in the future.

 

[bertoni]

The tank can be cleaned with some vinegar. I agree that pitching any live rock or sand is a good idea.

 

[i2go]

The tank is perfect for my new project though, its drilled with an overflow. If i cleaned it out with hot water and vinegar can this remove the copper? The tank has been sitting in my garage for about 3months.
thanks!

 

[bertoni]

Yes, vinegar and hot water will do the trick. Those surfaces might be too small to hold a dangerous amount of copper, anyway.