Sillacone Sealant

[Savant]

I was told that the ones sold at LFS are substantially more expensive than those found at hardware stores... Are they any different or should I only buy those marked aquarium safe?

[EvolutionZ]

i guess paying abit more to ensure safety for your fauna is better right? maybe normal silicon have some kinda harmful chemicals while the aquarium safe ones are harmless..

[Savant]

Yes... I personally wouldn't use it for my aquarium... Nonetheless I have been asked why not by family members... and I want to have some convincing arguments to present to them...

I note in a number of uk threads that they have harmful chemicals but want to know the extent and more details...

[illumnae]

if it's not aquarium safe, it may leech chemicals or may not bond as strongly as it's not made to withstand the constant pressure and life under water i guess?

[bossteck]

I believe some of these harmful chemicals are actually fungicide.
Most cheaper silicon available at hardware shops do not contain them, those more expensive ones are actually the ones that are not aquarium safe.

To answer the question of why not:

Silicon available at LFS are usually smaller tubes, you most likely do not need a silicon gun to apply it since it is meant for smaller jobs (like maybe doing your backdrop, or sticking few pieces of rocks together) my belief is that this convience is the reason for the higher costs.

Savant, if you're planning to do repair works, be advised that silicon does not stick well to cured silicon, and you will need to cut out the old silicon, clean your glass surface really well, then apply new silicon. Allow for at least 3 days for it to be fully cured.

Also, do note that there're at least 2 types of silicon available at hardware shops... clear and white, go for the clear ones. Black silicon are also available, but more expensive.

[BFG]

There is a product available in the market right now.

http://www.aquarium-munster.com/Eng/...d_Aquarium.asp

Available at-

http://www.aquamarin.com.sg/products...uctid='583'

[rekian]

make sure it safe to use on fish before using. you without want something happen to your fish for such a small bargain.