Fluorescent reef safe paints for decor

[SUPsurfer300]

Hello

I'm new to this board, but not to the hobby. I've done some reading across the web and appears the more helpful information is posted here.

It appears the consensus is that Krylon Fusion spray paints are reef safe for in tank use. However Krylon Fusion doesn't appear to have fluorescent colors.

Krylon website does have fluorescent colors but it's not under the label "Fusion" not sure if there's a difference or it's just a marketing thing.

I've also heard to use epoxy, but again none appear to be fluorescent in colors.

The main goal for me is simple. I'm setting up a new 220 gal FO from a 90 gal FO.

I have some room to add live rock and decor. Invested is some nice LED lighting and like to paint little highlights on the fake corals. I wasn't going to spray large areas but rather dab with a sponge around the edges of fake corals. Just adding highlights.

I suppose i'm not opposed to using reg fluorescent acrylic paint and then spraying some type of sealer over it.

Look forward to feedback! Thanks.

 

[CuzzA]

I can't help with which paint exactly to use, but every paint has a MSDS (material data safety sheet). I would try to match one with the Krylon. Also, it would be advantageous to contact the manufacturer. And finally, perhaps do some research on what type of paint coral insert manufacturing companies use. Also I'm pretty confident acrylic paints sold at hobby shops like Michaels and JoAnn Fabrics are safe. Being that this is a FOLWR your options probably open up a lot.

I will add that if I was going to do this I would heavily seal the paint with a clear epoxy or glaze as these paints, including the Krylon tend to chip away. An even better solution would be to make your own coral inserts with dyed material so the color is throughout the material.

And then look into cleaning with hydrogen peroxide. I believe that is common practice for in tank cleaning.

Hope this helps.

 

[SUPsurfer300]

Thanks! Yup I was thinking of heading to a local Michaels to pick up some Createx Airbrush paint. They are commonly used on T-shirts and hold up under some harsh conditions. Like a washing machine and dryer. This a a blurb from their website. textile airbrush paints suited for a variety of substrates, both porous and non- porous surfaces. Createx Airbrush Colors are intended for interior application and require heat for final curing. Wicked Colors are intended for both interior and exterior applications.

 

[j tavares]

I have used liquitex arylic paints on coral replicas with good results, let dry several days.

 

[SUPsurfer300]

Good to hear! When I went to Michaels they did not carry the Createx line so I went with Liguitex acrylic paint pens.

I also bought clear epoxy that specifically says aquarium safe as a precaution to cover over the areas I paint. But not sure if I need or will use it. It's not very workable as a gel. Tends to ruin the appearance and texture of the pho corals.