Re: [Killietalk] Re: Poly Bags

[LeeH920226 at aol_com]

In a message dated 9/3/03 9:10:11 AM, YoHoHo at aol_com writes:

<< do the types of absorbent materials and resins sold in the
hobby ever leach back the chemicals they have picked up, or do they
simply reach their 'capacity' and cease to function? >>

That is an excellent question. Certainly saturation is reached and no more 
benefit is achieved regardless of the type. If a chemical reaction occurs (as 
with Amquel) the chlorine or ammonia is no longer there as chlorine or ammonia 
and cannot return. If it is absorbed by surface absorption or ionic attraction 
as is the case with Polyfilter, it can reach a state of equilibrium and if 
something (like temperature change) shifts that equilibrium it can be returned to 
the water. Which leads to another hypothesis about Bill Shenefelt's 
experience. Perhaps, the bags were cooler and the Polyfilter was capable of holding 
more ammonia. Then when the purchaser put them in a nice warm car to bring them 
home the Polyfilter released the ammonia (some of it anyway).

Lee Harper
Media, PA
USA