[Date Prev][Date Next][Thread Prev][Thread Next][Date Index][Thread Index]
Re: Profile
> Wayne and David,
>
> I measured this effect sometime ago when I setup my
> tank with Profile. The fluctuation of pH was
> dependent on the amount of washes that were conducted
> on the Profile. The more I washed the Profile prior
> to using it, the more stable the pH would be. If I
> only washed it a few times, the pH would decline.
>
> With water changes and time your pH should stabilize
> at that of your tap water.
>
> Lobos
Hi,
So, it is a real effect. The Profile must be exchanging hydrogen atoms
for the calcium and magnesium ions resulting in the production of
carbonic acid. Today I checked the pH of the aquarium and found it to
have fallen once again to 5.0. Obviously the acid production takes place
much faster than the dissolution of the carbonates. I did notice that
the initial addition of water to the Profile resulted in a hissing sound
similar to the sound made when acid is added to limestone. In time, it
should create a much more stable water column for people living in soft
water areas. James Foley says that his tap and tank waters have
identical pH values of 7.6 at a low hardness. This would indicate to me
that Profile does have a buffering effect once an equilibrium is
reached. I'm glad I didn't add KCl or K2SO4.
The trick might be to soak the Profile in a mix containing potassium,
calcium and magnesium salts and then rinse off the acids prior to
setting up the tank.
I wonder if the plants are finished? I can't afford to lose them.
Lobos, how do you like the Profile?
Regards,