Tank Build Silicone

[MACJMC]

Looking for a clear Silicone for a 40 gal breeder. I am going to be building it to the same dimensions with low e glass on all viewable sides. What type of silicone would be good and will keep me from worrying about this thing falling apart? Thanks!

[MACJMC]

Not low e sorry low iron!

[mr.maroonsalty]

I'm into nearly a day of trying to get that answer as well, seems silicon makers won't quite say; so far all they have said is silicon breaks down over time when exposed to constant water. So far rtv108 and scs1200 seem likely suitable. What do tank builders use???

[vdubfiend]

i get 100% silicone specifically for aquarium use through my work..

about $5 a cartridge..

lmk i can ship to you !

[Steverino]

somewhat related, in my shower, I used a 100% silicone that is specifically for use in bathroom tub and shower, and after 4 days, it still has a sticky feel to it? I used the same tube on a different shower 2 weeks before and it was cured in 72 hours and dry to the touch. Could that be a humidity thing? The weather in the midwest has been extremely humid and rainy the last week.

[littleoldme]

Please don't put anything in that tank. Silicone made for kitchens and baths contains additives that help prevent mold and mildew, very bad for reef tanks.

[itZme]

All-Glass sells cartridges that are specifically labeled for aquarium use but I have used GE Silicone I for windows and doors with no problem for years. It costs about $3.50 per tube.

http://ace.imageg.net/graphics/product_images/pACE3-953166dt.jpg

If you see the "Microban" logo you DO NOT want that. In the Kitchen and Bath silicone they add anti-microbial additives. The window and door stuff is almost always just 100% silicone.

If you are building a nice tank and are spending the extra for low-iron glass you might as well spend the extra money for the All-Glass stuff (about $12.99 / tube at the LFS) You can find it cheaper online like at Big Al's for $6.19/ tube (http://www.bigalsonline.com/BigAlsUS/ctl3684/cp18273/si1378884/cl0/allglasssiliconesealant10ozblack)
http://akamai.edeal.com/images/catalog3684/folder24579/img3039905.jpg

HTH
-- Kevin

[BeanAnimal]

steve, if it has not yet cured, it will not.

In the time between the two applications, the tube may have gone bad (Or more likely, the stuff at the back end of the tube was already bady). Check the label for the expiration date...

[mr.maroonsalty]

A GE engineer called me back and confirmed the scs1200 is their professional grade product used for aquarium building.

[BeanAnimal]

Good info to file away...