Maxplantinstitute
Member
I just found out my watercompany adds sodium silicates (Na2O*nSiO2) or equivalent to our tapwater to prevent corrosion.
And when I read about this process I found out it the silicates also binds with Fe, Mn and other elements.
So I wonder what implications this might have for my aquarium? I used a JBL silicate test (SiO2) and my tapwater levels was through the roof. I had to dilute the sample 50/50 to even got on the scale of the color score chart(I think, color comparison is not always easy).
I have always had diatoms in my tank and I know the general consensus is that silicates does not cause diatoms, but it doesnt help either.
Is the addisjon of silicates to my tapwater something I should take into consideration and maybe get a RO unit, or is this unproblematic for planted tanks and I should not worry about this?
Can someone please help ease my mind in this matter?
And when I read about this process I found out it the silicates also binds with Fe, Mn and other elements.
So I wonder what implications this might have for my aquarium? I used a JBL silicate test (SiO2) and my tapwater levels was through the roof. I had to dilute the sample 50/50 to even got on the scale of the color score chart(I think, color comparison is not always easy).
I have always had diatoms in my tank and I know the general consensus is that silicates does not cause diatoms, but it doesnt help either.
Is the addisjon of silicates to my tapwater something I should take into consideration and maybe get a RO unit, or is this unproblematic for planted tanks and I should not worry about this?
Can someone please help ease my mind in this matter?