GFO (Granular Ferric Oxide)

[JaredWaites]

Alrighty then.

I know Ferric means Iron or relating to, I've noticed that GFO is Red...so I'm guessing

Ferrix Oxide = Red Iron Oxide?

So basically using a PhosBan reactor or GFO could potentially raise Iron levels in our tanks?

Really we are adding rust to our aquariums to reduce Phosphate/Phosphorus levels...?

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley]

It is possible that some soluble iron is released. Whether that is a concern is a different matter. It may benefit some tanks.

You do not dose it, since it is contained somehow, and it is not just rust.

This article has more:


Iron Oxide Hydroxide (GFO) Phosphate Binders
http://reefkeeping.com/issues/2004-11/rhf/index.htm

 

[JaredWaites]

So its the same thing added to thermite haha

I know its not dosed, I should have rephrased how I said that we are adding it to reactors...

Ok, so Ferric Oxide and Iron Oxide Hydroxide all do the same thing?

Thanks for the link Randy.

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley]

The surface area and likelihood of breaking apart into tiny bits that get loose in the tank are critical parameters for our application. More surface area means more phosphate binding sites. Grades of iron oxide or hydroxide that are not made for water treatment are unlikely to be acceptable.

 

[JaredWaites]

So if I build a big reactor say out of 10" PVC, and make it around 6' long, how do you know when to change the media? When the Phosphate levels start to rise?

I'm planning on removing phosphate from raw water from the Gulf that has been filtered via well points set out at about 150 feet from the beach.

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley]

Yes, measuring phosphate is about the only way to know when it is depleted in an application like that.

 

[JaredWaites]

So to my chemical supplier, am I looking for Granular Ferric Oxide, Iron Oxide Hydroxide or what?

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley]

I doubt most chemical suppliers sell suitable grades. Water treatment supply companies sell materials such as Bayoxide E33.

 

[JaredWaites]

So Bayoxide E33, is what I need to get then? Is it the same chemical?

E33 is for drinking water applications although E IN-20 Bayoxide would still be suitable?

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley]

There appear to be a variety of different materials on the market. I do not know what the important differences are between any of the bulk suppliers of GFO for water treatment.

 

[JaredWaites]

Thanks Randy

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley]

You're welcome.

Good luck and let us know if you find out anything interesting.