Testing Carbon for Tank Use

[skierguy]

I was able to acquire a large bag of activated carbon chips that was being used at work. I am looking for the best way to test the carbon prior to adding it to my tank. They look very similar to the chips sold for tank use. My major concerns are the phosphates leaking back into the system. What other things should I be looking for? I am also looking for ideas on testing methods?

Thanks

Ben

 

[skierguy]

To clarify the carbon is new and was not used

 

[sagitariuscbc]

ben have you ran your question by randy holmes-farley here on rc.
http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?s=&forumid=112

!~)

 

[sagitariuscbc]

i just got my answer as i just saw your post over there!~)

!~)

 

[CaptiveReefSystems]

with carbon, the first question you want to ask is why are you using it in the first place. Carbon is like a protein skimmer. It takes out the good with the bad.

 

[skierguy]

As my mixed reef is becoming more "mixed" I was hoping to stem any chemical warfare between the corals.

I was not aware that carbon removes beneficial things as well. Can you please explain? The last thing I want to do is go backwards.

 

[CaptiveReefSystems]

Carbon is like a sponge. Small stuff get caught or absorbed into it. SO if you are dosing alk buffer or calcium or for that matter any additive, I always suggest stopping the dosing while you are using carbon. Otherwise, your carbon will be absorbing some of what you are spending your money on when dosing.

I am not looking to start the debate on whether or not to use carbon, all I am saying is, I see carbon as a special use material. Use it to remove medication or to clear the stuff that turns water yellow. One number that is important with carbon is the iodine number. The Iodine number can tell you what size particles your carbon will absorb. The higher the number, them more it will absorb.