Regenerating GFO

[DRThompson]

Does anyone currently do this?

Here's the reference article:
http://www.advancedaquarist.com/2010/10/chemistry

I've just started to do this and was wondering how many times I can regenerate the GFO. Looking for advice from anyone who's had experience with this.

I'll also post details and pics of my experience if anyone is interested.

Dave

 

[DRThompson]

Here's my equipment. I'm using a BRS reactor and cartridge, mag3 pump, and a 5gal bucket.

 

[DRThompson]

I'm told any FOOD grade sodium hydroxide is good. If you do a search on Amazon or eBay for "food grade sodium hydroxide" you'll find some.

Also, i'm using some muriatic acid i bought from Home depot.

 

[jonnyu]

I know this guy Dave that does it. Lol

 

[DRThompson]

Basically, I follow the referenced article: (regenerates 500ml of GFO)

Step 1: (dilute acid rinse)
I add about 8ml of muriatic acid to 8L of RO water for the acid wash to remove any excess calcium build up. I rinse this thru the reactor for about 6 hours. then drain

Step 2: (regeneration of GFO with 1molar solution of NaOH)
I add 320grams of Sodium Hydroxide to 8L of RO water. I run the reactor in this solution for 72 hours. Then drain (I pour it down the sink drain that I use for all my fish stuff since it's essentially draino )

Step 3: (final rinse)
Lastly, I run about 25L of RO water thru the reactor (single pass) to rinse and remove all the NaOH from the GFO.

I really like the BRS cartridges for this. It makes it easier to handle the equipment and GFO. Probably best to note that sodium hydroxide can cause severe burns, so protect yourself (rubber gloves).

 

[DRThompson]

I know this guy Dave that does it. Lol

yea, crazy dave they call him :lmao:

 

[rovster]

Do you have to use a reactor? I've got a good amount I've been saving for this purpose but it's too much to fit in a reactor. I figured a bucket and a PVC pipe for stirring should be good. Thoughts? For a small amount the reactor sounds like a great idea!

 

[DRThompson]

Do you have to use a reactor? I've got a good amount I've been saving for this purpose but it's too much to fit in a reactor. I figured a bucket and a PVC pipe for stirring should be good. Thoughts? For a small amount the reactor sounds like a great idea!

I have only tried the method i've mentioned. However, quoting the article:

"Regeneration of GFO with sodium hydroxide: For every 500mL of GFO, add 8L of fresh water mixed with 320g of sodium hydroxide. Rinse for 72-96 hours and then drain."

Since this is by volume, just measure how much you have and adjust.

You would need to stir OFTEN since the media would just settle to the bottom. IMO, it would be less effective and may require more than 72 hours though.

 

[nivram]

Pretty cool. Let me know when you're ready to do di resin.

 

[AquamanE]

OMG guys, is it really worth it? Im curious. Some many other things we have to worry about in our reefs....Regenerating GFO and DI resin?...... Show me its worth it?

 

[rovster]

GFO is expensive, the chemicals used for regeneration are cheap. Its worth it if you have some spare time and have a LOT of GFO to recharge. I've been saving my GFO to try it but I don't users whole lot anymore. I probably have about a 1/2 gallon worth, wanted to collect a bit more before attempting to waste my time....

 

[DRThompson]

OMG guys, is it really worth it? Im curious. Some many other things we have to worry about in our reefs....Regenerating GFO and DI resin?...... Show me its worth it?

High capacity GFO costs about $20/lb, regenerating GFO costs about $3/lb.

Seems worth a try. I saved up about 7lbs of high capacity GFO to give this a try. Will keep you informed.

 

[trueperc]

I have been regenerating GFO for about 5 years now. Absolutely worth it. Most people leave gfo in your tank way to long. For lots of people you are lucky to get 2-3 weeks, maybe a month out of it, not the 3-6 months. I have been able to save a ton of money.

 

[ravedood]

I wish i hadn't thrown away all my used gfo all these years.