3D Background

[D12DetroitD12]

I have a extra 20 gal thats empty and Ive been wanting to this for a long time but i have one question about it. Ive looked all over and read all the different ways of making one and the different materials used. I was just wondering if i were to use Styrofoam coated with quick create would i have to coat that in a layer of something too to make it safe for my fish?

 

[hermeticcharm]

From what I have read, just brief research on a project I might undergo eventually, the quickcrete will leak chemicals into the water. This can be avoided by either leaching it in water (the same way you would driftwood to leach tannin) for at least several weeks and that may get everything out or you can seal it with an epoxy. I forget which one they said to use, let me see if I can find it again.

 

[hermeticcharm]

Here we go:

From turtletimes.com forum

http://www.turtletimes.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=56265

Posted 09 October 2007 - 04:18 PM
1. Is concrete harmful to the turtles? I've read somethings about using concrete can significantly change chemical levels in the water ...

It can make it much more alkaline. One option is to soak it for a really really long time (like WEEKS), another is to seal it with epoxy resin.

2. Does concrete degrade over time in the water? e.g., could it cause cloudy water or irritate the turt's eyes or anything?

If it were adequately cured beforehand, it should be OK unless your water is unusually acidic.

3. Some of the projects use Epoxy Resin to seal the concrete to prevent degrade / eating, is this safe as well?

I've used the West Marine 2 part epoxy system with no problem - a number of projects I've read about on cichlid and reef forums have used it too, again with no problem.

Paint / Coloring:
1. A lot of the projects use Latex paint ... is this safe? Or can it degrade and be picked off and eaten.

I certainly wouldn't use it without sealing it in some way.

2. Some of the projects use cement dye instead ... would this be safer?

Yes, especially if the cement is sealed.