Sealant for aquarium: a reliable and indispensable assistant

Sealant for aquarium is a faithful and reliable companion of any aquarist. With a special adhesive can eliminate any leaking tank, set therein glass partitions, I create elevations on the bottom. By the aquarium sealant to special requirements. The composition should be devoid of components, which may adversely affect fish and plants. On what should be chosen for the aquarium sealant, can be found in this article.

Basic requirements for the aquarium sealant

Adhesive for aquariums, which is used for the repair of the vessel, its complement partitions, terraces and a variety of heights, must meet certain requirements. It is necessary that the glass sealant has been environmentally friendly, it does not contain in its composition of harmful compounds that can adversely affect the health of fish and aquatic plants. The glue required to be absent antibacterial, antifungal additives, fungicides, acids, alkalis. In contact with water it does not release toxic substances, which will be detrimental to living things.

Important!Aquarium is better to use pure silicone sealant.

Adhesive for the aquarium stuff should be pretty flexible. It is required that the action of water pressure, especially in the large-capacity tanks, seams are not Expenses not cracked, as this may cause a violation of the integrity of the structure in the event of its repair. The composition should have a good transfer of stretching without losing the seal. The adhesive is obliged to have a high degree of adhesion to glass aquarium and plexiglas.

You need to choose the glue, characterized in durability. The composition will be exposed to long years of air and water pollution, extreme load. The sealant should have good moisture resistance, endure the difference in temperature between the inside and outside of the container, exposure to ultraviolet rays. Material required to be characterized by increased adhesion to glass.

Why sealant used for aquariums: variety of adhesive

Those who wish to have a fish in his home, often become ready aquariums. Many experienced aquarists prefer to create such structures independently. As a result, you can make a unique container of appropriate size and shape, which will cater to personal preferences and at the same time will save finances.

The sealant is also required when there is a question about what to glue tank. In operation, sometimes cracks occur on the glass or depressurization joints. Clay is also required for the installation of various decorative elements in the tank, which can be mounted on the walls or the bottom of the aquarium.

There are several variants of the sealant applied in different situations. The adhesive may be a one-component and two-component. The first option is immediately ready for use, and the second should be prepared by mixing the components.

For bonding glass surfaces there are different types of sealants, which differ in chemical composition. With this purpose, acrylic, silicone, bitumen, polyurethane and thiokol compositions. The first embodiment is characterized by a low adhesion, water resistance insufficient, but low cost. The acrylic composition is not the best means for aquariums, because it can not provide the necessary sealing joints.

Useful advice!Acrylic sealant may be used for sealing small cracks on the outer glass to protect the structure from further destruction.

Bitumen, polyurethane sealants and Thiokol have good elasticity, adhesion to glass, water resistance. However, these adhesives contain components that have a negative impact on the health and lives of the inhabitants of the aquarium. The best option is a silicone adhesive to the aquarium.

Key characteristics of silicone sealant

Silicone sealant aquarium should be characterized by moisture resistance, a high elasticity, a high speed setting and of hardening in air. Softness, flexibility and strength of the joint provided by the presence of silicon in the composition of matter. Clay, thanks to its performance characteristics under the influence of stress on the seam does not form cracks and defects in the glass.

The basis of the aquarium silicone sealant is a synthetic rubber which is characterized by high temperature conditions. Due to the adhesive portion is achieved a secure connection between the surface and binder. Plasticizer as part silicone sealant provides greater elasticity. Vulcanizer and power strength contribute to making the viscous plastic masses in dry matter.

The sealant also comprises a coloring pigment, depending on which adhesive may be white, black or transparent. The latter option is more preferable from the standpoint of environmental safety, since in the composition no artificial pigments. Transparent silicone sanitary sealant give the aquarium a weightless feel. However, this seam will turn quickly under the influence of feed. On the surface of the seam will be visible adherent coating and algae. This adhesive is best used for small aquariums.

Important!To make the large tank decoration appropriate to apply the black sealant for aquarium, but be aware that it can be reflected in the qualitative composition of the water.

Varieties of silicone sealant for aquarium

Aquarium silicone may be acidic or neutral. The first option is often used in construction and finishing works. It is widely used for gluing aquarium and terrarium elements. The disadvantages of this composition include acetic unpleasant odor and a long drying period substance. While the glue is completely dry, and the smell does not erode the container must be empty. A few days later it is filled with water, periodically changing it several times. Thereafter tank ready for use.

Neutral silicone adhesive to the aquarium is characterized by the best adhesive properties. It has no odor, as an acidic composition. When working with the glue is not required to use personal protective equipment. The composition dries quickly, is achieved within 20 minutes. After 24 hours, the aquarium can be used.

However, the cost of a neutral silicon is much higher than the price equivalent. This adhesive does not like coloring. Paint after application will slide down the surface. Neither should cover the old layer. The surface must be pre-cleaned and degreased. Color silicone sealant (neutral composition) is transparent.

Useful advice!Aquarium silicone adhesive may be used for water or utensils, which included no antimicrobial and antifungal agents.

Useful advice on shopping for aquarium glue

To purchase-adhesive sealant for aquarium should be treated with great responsibility. Choosing low-quality adhesive material not only can cause rapid destruction of the joints, but also have a negative impact on the livelihoods of the inhabitants of the tank.

Purchase products should be in specialized stores, where sellers can provide a certificate for the goods and give him a guarantee. In doubtful outlets adhesive Aquarium is better not to buy.

It is mandatory to pay attention to the expiry date, aquarium silicone sealant. If the period of its operation at the end, the material will not have sufficient pristine qualities as fresh produce.

Important!Aquarium should be used fresh, just unpacked sealant. Launched balloon is no longer guarantee of quality, and durable sealing joint.

Aquatic adhesives manufactured as a one-component and two-component compositions. In the first case, the adhesive is placed in a standard cartridge 310 ml or 600 ml tube. The two-component compositions are produced in a double cartridge with the components A and B.

On sealant label indicates the tensile strength of which is 0,8-5,7 N / mm2. The larger the size of the aquarium, the stronger the need to structure that can withstand the pressure of the water, which will affect the tank wall. On the package also indicates silicone sealant consumption.

Aquarium preferable to use neutral silicone glue compositions that do not contain chemical dyes. It is necessary to pay attention to packaging. It should be clearly stated purpose of the material, "aquarium". It should not acquire a versatile composition which comprises predominantly antifungal agents affecting the inhabitants of the aquarium.

Required to abandon the products of questionable packaging. It can be counterfeit goods. Often the tube is filled with silicone construction that comes in containers. Unscrupulous sellers to increase the composition is often added organic oil, which negatively affects the quality of the glue mixture. Nor should purchase adhesives in which the package indicates that the material has improved physical-chemical parameters.

Review of popular manufacturers for aquarium Silicone

In retail outlets offers a wide range of adhesives for aquariums from different manufacturers. The greatest recognition among aquarists are brand Tytan, Krass, Okyanus Kimya, Soudal, «Moment".

Polish manufacturer Tytan offers a range of adhesives for aquariums. Silicone Sealant different food of the highest quality, the best adhesion, moisture resistance, enhanced sealing. This composition can paste over a large tank. The sutures are characterized by elasticity, resistance to the adverse external factors, reliability and durability. Among the shortcomings can be identified sealants Tytan their high cost, which amounts to an average of 350 rubles. for tuba.

Another well-known Polish company is a company Krass. Adhesive products are of satisfactory quality, which is compensated low cost material. Such compositions are of limited use. Silicone sealant should be used for gluing small aquariums or for the construction of partitions inside the tank. For large structures such silicone it is not recommended, since no high-quality sealing compounds will be provided.

Turkish company Okyanus Kimya offers quality sealant based on silicone, which is designed for a variety of construction and finishing works, including the aquarium. Products are of good value for money. When using this brand sealant provides a sturdy, durable, flexible and durable connection.

Answering the question what the sealant for aquariums better, should pay attention to the products of the Belgian brand Soudal. Adhesive compositions are characteristic of high quality, high adhesion to the glass surface. Such sealants provide an opportunity to get a reliable and durable seam.

Henkel offers a series of high-quality silicone compounds "Moment", which are perfect for aquariums and terrariums. This material is able to withstand even contact with seawater. The composition provides a reliable seal joints even those that may be subjected to vibration.

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Fields of application. Characteristics of silicone, acrylic, polyurethane compositions. As applied. How sealant dries.

How to choose a sealer for an aquarium: the best silicone adhesive

According to numerous reviews hobbyists on the Internet that discuss the question of how to glue tanks, there are several of the most popular sealants based on silicone.

The most popular is considered to be absolutely pure silicone Soudal AQ. Mono-constituent substance is safe for the living inhabitants of the aquarium. It does not contain toxic substances and other harmful components. Such a silicone adhesive is specifically designed for aquariums. Among the distinctive advantages of silicone sealant for aquarium Soudal can distinguish good elasticity, water resistance, fast drying speed, ease of use and a long period Storage. Buy this adhesive can be for 415 rubles.

High-speed, one-component sealant acidic vulcanizing basis Chemlux 9013 characterized high strength, durability, good flexibility, integrity, open long period of storage bottle. Although unpleasant sour odor data adhesive composition can okleit large tanks, the volume of which can reach three thousand. l. How much is a sealant? adhesive price - 350 rubles.

Reflecting than glue tank, pay attention to the neutral variant Dow Corning 7093. It is a single component transparent non-toxic glue, which is devoid of odor. The composition has good elasticity and a moderate elasticity, whereby the attained maximum strength, durability and tightness of the connection. Cost of this sealant is an average of 320 rubles.

What better sealant for aquarium: popular brands

It is popular among aquarists universal single-component composition Penosil. He has a good texture, so that does not drip during application. Since it is easy to work with. The material is characterized by good flexibility, strength after drying, water resistance and sunlight. Among the shortcomings can be isolated malodor adhesive mass and a long period of complete drying. Material price is 260 rubles.

Material endures prolonged exposure to ultraviolet rays. Such a joint does not collapse over time under the influence of water and air, so that is durable. How much is silicone? Glue the cost - 280 rubles.

One of the best silicone sealants can be called "Moment Germent", which is ideal for aquariums and terrariums. It is characterized by good flexibility, high resistance to exposure to water and air, the UV radiation. Composition reliably seals butt joints, which can be subjected to a slight vibration without violating their integrity. Price aquarium sealant is 290 rubles. for tuba.

Good properties has soft elastic silicone rubber "Kim Tech." Substance exhibits resistance to any adverse factors. Widely used for aquariums, terrariums, and all kinds of structures made of glass. Buy a silicone can for 290 rubles.

The cheapest one is a silicone sealant universal Krass, which can be used for aquariums. In its structure there are many supplements significantly impair its adhesive properties. However, such one-component composition has satisfactory elasticity. Due to the unpleasant odor pasted via the sealant container it is recommended not less than a day left in a well ventilated place. Buy a sealant can be 240 rubles.

How to use a silicone sealant: guide for the novice master

This section discusses how to use silicone sealant. In order to glue yourself a glass aquarium, you must follow the following steps. The first step is preparing the workplace. For this smooth surface takes cover with cellophane. Glass elements of the future aquarium paste over with masking tape, backing away from the edge of a few millimeters in order to protect the surface from contamination. Abutting areas to be cleaned. It uses an alcohol or acetone.

Thin layer on the edge sealant is applied to products. The elements are joined together. Details are fixed at the time specified in the instructions to the adhesive. In the case of formation of air bubbles at the junction of them must be eliminated by adding a hermetic tightening and structure walls. Remove air can also by a rubber roller which must walk along the seam. If a problem is detected after drying silicone bubbles with the air is pierced with a needle. In identifying significant surface defects have to glue again.

Without waiting for complete drying of the glue with a scraper should remove its excess on the outer and inner parts of the joint.

Useful advice!If sealant is already grasped, to remove it, you can use vinegar, moisten them a sponge and gently wiping the surface.

How many sanitary silicone sealant dries? Full setting adhesive sets after 24 hours, after which the locking structure is removed screed. Capacity is filled with water to check the tightness of all connections.

Important!The sealant is only applied on dry, fat-free surface that will be a guarantee of a reliable and durable connections.

In case of damage to the integrity of the tank can be repaired by the sealant. Before the glue tank, the damaged surface is dried, degreased with alcohol. Adhesive is applied on the crack silicone substance which is aligned with a rubber spatula. Further kept the time needed for drying, after which the construction is suitable for further use.

Among the wide range of sealants it is important to choose a suitable adhesive composition for the aquarium, which is not only provide durable, high-quality, reliable and durable connection, but will not have a negative impact on it inhabitants.