Anti-heavy metals

Anti-Heavy Metals

The Anti-Heavy Metals category includes media and protocols designed to eliminate toxic metal ions (Cu, Pb, Hg, Cd, etc.) to protect reef fauna and flora.

Operating Principles

• Chelating resins: specific ion exchangers (Ultra Phos, iron/aluminum-based resins) that capture heavy metals through chelation.
• Special activated carbon: marine or catalytic carbon with high affinity for heavy metals.
• Modified zeolites: porous minerals treated to adsorb metal ions.
• Colloidal particle filters: microporous membranes or cartridges eliminating particulate metal complexes.

Advantages

• Rapid elimination: significant reduction of heavy metal concentrations in a few hours.
• Animal protection: preservation of sensitive corals, fish, and invertebrates.
• Targeted action: selective capture of metals without altering essential elements (Ca, Mg, K).
• Ease of use: simple insertion into reactor, basket, or filter cartridge.

Usage Recommendations

• Install 50–100 g of chelating resin (Ultra Phos) per 100 L of volume in a flow reactor or filter basket.
• Circulate the water at a moderate flow rate (5–10 x the tank volume per hour) to optimize contact.
• Add a stick of marine activated carbon as a complement to broaden the adsorption spectrum.
• Replace or regenerate the media every 3–6 weeks depending on the load and ICP analyses.
• Regularly test (ICP or specialized test) the concentrations of targeted metals and adjust the amount of media accordingly.