Pillow stuffing for filter floss?

[fishkeeprian]

Hello,

I'm a little concerned. I have been using pillow stuffing as filter floss but I have been told it's usually treated with anti mould chemicals etc, is that correct?

 

[civics14]

I been using polyfill for almost 4 months on an SPS dominated tank with no ill effect.

Picture of tank.

 

[civics14]

Picture didn't attach...

 

[billdogg]

I have a bag of poly fill I got at wallyworld about 15 years ago that I’ve been using with no ill effect ever since.

 

[mcgyvr]

I been using polyfill for almost 4 months on an SPS dominated tank with no ill effect.

I'm curious if you had that diatom issue before using it?

Most if not all of those poly fill products are treated with a silicate/silicone coating on the polyester fiber to make it "smooth" to the touch..

That coating is also what typically gives it its "antimicrobial" marketing. Its not toxic at all so if thats fishkeepers concern then they can stop worrying about that..

I am not sure of that how soluable that silicate treat is but I suspect it could be food for diatom growth to some extent..

 

[robertifly]

Good info on the pillar filling! Whew, that's the tank I want civics14 what are your using for lighting?

 

[civics14]

Yeah, I had diatoms before as well. I had used a silicone grease on my seals for my pumps and been battling it since. Its a lot less than it use to be.

I'm curious if you had that diatom issue before using it?

Most if not all of those poly fill products are treated with a silicate/silicone coating on the polyester fiber to make it "smooth" to the touch..

That coating is also what typically gives it its "antimicrobial" marketing. Its not toxic at all so if thats fishkeepers concern then they can stop worrying about that..

I am not sure of that how soluable that silicate treat is but I suspect it could be food for diatom growth to some extent..

 

[civics14]

Good info on the pillar filling! Whew, that's the tank I want civics14 what are your using for lighting?

6x RapidLED Onyx & 2x T5s.