Why is phosphate removal important
for reef aquariums?
Elevated phosphate levels in aquariums have been shown to decrease
calcification rates of stony corals. High phosphates have also been
shown to initiate and maintain the growth of unsightly nuisance
algae. As a result,
we
recommend
keeping reef aquarium phosphate levels below 0.03 ppm.
Where can I find sodium carbonate to
make the regeneration solution?
There are several sources for pure sodium carbonate. Whichever
source you chose, ensure that the product is in fact 100% pure
sodium carbonate.
1) Pool
Supply stores (A product called "pH Plus" produced by Olin Company)
2) Grocery stores (100% pure sodium carbonate washing soda produced
by Arm and Hammer)
3) Heating
100% pure sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) in an oven to produce
sodium carbonate. (See below)
Can I substitute sodium bicarbonate
for sodium carbonate in the regeneration solution?
No, unheated sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) will not achieve an
appropriately high pH for the regeneration process to take place.
However, if you do not have access to sodium carbonate, you can
easily convert baking soda into sodium carbonate by heating it in
the oven.
How do I produce sodium carbonate from
sodium bicarbonate?
1)
Spread 300mL of sodium bicarbonate (100% pure baking soda) onto a
baking pan (The Opti-phos container holds around 300mL)
2) Heat the baking soda in an oven at 375 F for 1 hour. Mix the
powder at the 30 min mark to ensure even heating.
You will now
have about 200mL of anhydrous sodium carbonate. This freshly baked
powder will absorb carbon dioxide and moisture from the surrounding
air so you should create your regeneration solution soon after
creating it. If you chose to pre-make batches of sodium carbonate,
be sure to store the sodium carbonate in an air tight container.
Is it necessary to run fresh RO water
through the beads after regeneration?
Yes, It is very important to run fresh RO water through the beads
after regeneration to obtain a neutral pH. This is for the safety of
your tank inhabitants and also to maximize the absorption efficiency
of the beads.
Is Opti-Phos reef
safe?
Opti-phos is completely reef-safe.
Will Opti-Phos™ absorb any other ions
in the aquarium?
Opti-phos is not a simple anion exchange compound and does not
affect other common ions found in marine aquariums such as Sodium,
Chloride, Sulfate, Calcium, Magnesium, Bicarbonate, Strontium or
Potassium.
How can I tell if my Opti-Phos beads
need to be recharged?
The time
interval between each recharge will vary between aquariums. On
average, most aquariums will need to recharge the media once ever 6
to 8 weeks. Using an appropriately sensitive phosphate test kit,
measure the effluent coming out of the reactor. When the effluent
starts to show detectable traces of phosphate, (above 0.00 PPM) it
is time to recharge the resin.
Can I use UV/Ozone/carbon concurrently with Opti-Phos?
Yes, all
of these products can be used with Opti-Phos. However, a high level
of ozone may oxidize and damage the binding sites on the beads and
hinder its performance. Therefore, we do not recommend the
application of Opti-phos immediately in the effluent stream of
ozonated water. Ozonation should ideally occur far away from the
Opti-Phos reactor/filterbag.
|
