Backyard Aquaponics
A place to discuss aquaponics

So, yesterday I acquired 5 IBCs of dubious epoxy resin content. I believe I can clean them with copious amounts of acetone, sunlight and then a vigorous scrubbing of soap, bleach and water. The goal is to make a sump system that could be expanded at a later time.

I'm seeing many folks plumb multiple tanks together with an assortment of PVC fittings to equalize the water levels. That got me thinking, which usually get me in trouble. As a addicted sailor, why couldn't I use plastic marine thru-hull fittings and 3M 5500 boat adhesive? It certainly would be cheaper in the long run and form a tighter seal through the wall of the IBC. Has anyone else done this?


Dave

For short term use Acetone is probably OK but I would check it on a section and I would be careful not to leave it soak in the IBC since it's not chemically compatible with Polyethylene (most IBC's are Polyethylene apparently but check yours).

http://www.cdf1.com/technical%20bulletins/Polyethylene_Chemical_Resistance_Chart.pdf

Not sure about the epoxy. I know that it is used in aquariums but don't know if all versions of it are safe for fish

Most of the through hull fittings I've seen are more expensive than the equivalent Uniseals, at least where I purchase so if you have a less expensive option, I'm all ears

Do you build your own boats?

I wouldn't given the data on the MSDS.

In spite of the MSDS some of these are sold as drinking water safe. I suspect that many of the compounds are volatile and off gas as the epoxy cures but I wouldn't want to count on it. Might be worth contacting 3M to see what they say about the product once it's cured.

Regardless of whether you can use these for Aquaponics, from what I've read about boat building, people have problems with becoming sensitized to epoxy when they use solvents like acetone to clean equipment. If you decide to clean them, use a respirator and gloves at the very least.

@ Squatchapnics: OK. So maybe 5500 isn't for eating. There are brands of food grade RTV sealant out there.

@ Scotty435: Yeah, I'm addicted to rehabbing old boats, brewing beer, and now this and chickens.

Kill me now.

You've come to the right place

I am new as well N1EYO, but so far this IS the right place for anyone looking to connect and ask questions!

Uniseals are cheap 4$ for 90mm (3")


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