Coral snow alternative

[Proteus]

Just wondering if anybody has used food grade bentonite in place of zeo coral snow. It's a fraction of the cost.

[Myka]

Interesting question, though I think that's a no. How long have you been doing it? How much do you use?

[Proteus]

Over a year now. I mix it with ro to the consistency of cream. No real mix ratio.
I add it directly to the return pump as it does clump a little. A lfs does mix it quite a bit more runny and just Adda more though I'm unsure of their mix ratio... Any way I'm adding 10ml to 125 gallons 3x a week. Usually after I blow off the rocks.

I believe I originally found out about it on reef central. It was a thread on finding out what zeo is made of

[Myka]

Since you mentioned bentonite in my tank journal I've been doing some searching regarding it. Not a lot of info really.

[Proteus]

No there's not alot I'll see if I can find the original thread I found.
There are quite a few people that are now doing it in the Edmonton area

[Proteus]

Found this.
I also recall my father in law using bentonite in wine as a clarifier (floculant)
Bentonite clay does not affect your water chemistry. It works because at the ionic level it carries an electric charge which attracts other charged molecules. This attraction "focculates" (clumps) organics and other sub-micon fines around itself, which in turn then is large enough to filter or settle. This is how zeovit coral snow works - this is how the product I posted works. The difference is zeovite charges > $50.00 for 500mls of their product, while what I posted costs <$8.00 for the same amount.

This is nothing new - bentonite clay has been used to clear cloudy water forever. (its even in some of the salt mixes you buy) - it used to be called koi-clay. But suit yourself - good luck.

[Myka]

Interesting. I just bought a bottle of CS a month ago though so I'm good for a couple years at least.

[Proteus]

I've never hard a adverse effect from using it. I change out filter socks the morning after I dose it also, and skimmer does pick it up

[Icefire]

I thought Coral Snow was Calcite Chalk? (CaCO3)

[Proteus]

From what I read a little says yes along with Magnisium
http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/sh....php?t=2098589