What is the common media used for chemical filtration in aquarium?

What is the most common filter media used for chemical filtration in aquarium?

Chemical filtration media is used for the removal of toxic pollutants released from fish poop, uneaten food, and other detritus as well as certain harmful chemicals from the aquarium water. 

What is the most common media used for chemical filtration?

The most widely used chemical filter media is activated carbon. It is an extremely porous charcoal, which quickly absorbs medicines, tannins, & other toxic chemicals. Activated carbon is commonly available in loose granules inside a filter media bag. Carbon infused media pads are better as we can easily handle them, & they can be cut down to any size we want, & they offer higher mechanical filtration for removing detritus from the aquarium water. The section of the pad can be cut down for wrapping around a sponge filter using a rubber band or zip tie for additional chemical filtration. When all pores of the activated carbon absorb toxic chemicals, it is time to replace the media as it won’t absorb any more impurities.

Can I reuse chemical filter media?

If you are looking forward to reuse chemical filter media, then I would recommend synthetic adsorbents such as Purigen. The polymer granules are available inside a media bag that are used for absorbing toxic chemicals released from waste & tannins. When the colour of the chemical media changes from off-white to dark brown, then it is time to wash the media because the pores of the adsorbent are filled with toxins. Prepare a diluted bleach solution for burning off the organic waste so that we can reuse the adsorbent.

Which chemical media treat ammonia spikes?

Some types of the chemical media are used for special cases. Such as, ammonia spikes usually happen when the balance of the aquarium is disturbed, like shifting a fish tank, a power outage, or full cleaning of the aquarium. To save your aquarium from ammonia spikes, it is recommended to setup an ammonia filter pad for absorbing ammonia & saving your fish life.

Which chemical media control excessive phosphate in aquarium?

If levels of phosphate are extremely high in your fish tank, then you may experience abrupt growth of algae. Using a phosphate media pad will control the growth of phosphate to prevent algae from taking advantage of it. If your tank contains aquatic plants, then keeping phosphate levels between 0.5 & 2.0 ppm is recommended for better health of plants. Therefore, wiping out heaps of phosphate will result in yellowing & browning of the plant leaves.