TwoLittleFishies HydroCarbon 2 G.A.C. is a granulated activated carbon designed specifically for the purification of water. It is manufactured by steam activation and acid washing of a special Lignite material under carefully controlled conditions to produce an activated carbon most suitable for aquariums. Since it is extremely porous and positively does not leach phosphates that can stimulate the growth of algae.
It has a very low ash content and therefore hardly affects pH. HydroCarbon 2 G.A.C. has a wide range of pore sizes and large pore volume that provide a rapid adsorption rate plus a high capacity for dissolved organic compounds.
It has the highest capacity for removing water-yellowing tannic and humic compounds of any commercial water activated carbon, and adsorbs both large and small molecular pollutants, including defensive substances released into the water by soft and stony corals. The macroporous structure of HydroCarbon 2 G.A.C. also affords a high ability to resist clogging that can interfere with the adsorption of dissolved organic substances.
The granules are the optimum uniform size for use in high capacity filters, allowing even-flow of water at high velocity with minimal back pressure. HydroCarbon 2 G.A.C. has a long useful life. After months of use it also becomes a very active biological filtration community full of beneficial bacteria and microorganisms. It can thus be used as a biological nitrification, denitrification media, or to seed new aquariums with active bacteria cultures.
Directions:
Use approximately 250 ml (1/2 cup) of HydroCarbon 2 G.A.C. per 50 gallons. Entire contents will effectively treat 200 gallons. Pour the required quantity into a polyester or nylon filter bag. Carry the dry bag of HydroCarbon 2 G.A.C. outdoors and also bring a container partially filled with tap water that will be used to rinse it. When outside, immerse the closed bag into the container of water. The porous carbon sizzles a sit becomes hydrated, and carbon dust is released into the air and rinsing water. Do not breathe the dust! Shake the bag underwater and lift and immerse it again repeatedly in order to wash out most of the fine dust. The black water produced is safe to pour down a drain, or into the soil outdoors.
Locating the HydroCarbon:
For the most rapid removal of water staining organic and other pollutants, place the bag of pre-rinsed HydroCarbon 2 G.A.C. in a filter chamber where water flow is directed through it. Use filter floss before the bag to trap fine particulate matter that could clog the bag. May be used without a filter bag in external powerfilters by installing filter floss above and beneath the carbon to retain it. Important: When it is being used in a high-flow filter chamber, be sure to close the bag so that the carbon is kept tightly packed. This will prevent the granules from tumbling, which could liberate carbon dust into the water. HydroCarbon 2 G.A.C. can also be used passively, without filter floss, by locating it in a filter chamber in such a way that water flows over and through the bag but is not forced through it exclusively. Continuous use in this passive manner still effectively prevents the accumulation of yellowing substances, keeping the water sparkling crystal clear. Replace with new HydroCarbon 2 G.A.C. as needed to maintain the colorless water. Normally effective for several months.
Important:
Keep this container tightly closed to prevent air pollution from being adsorbed. Do not use HydroCarbon 2 G.A.C. when medicating the aquarium. Can be used to remove medications from the water when treatment is complete, but should be discarded afterwards.
Ozone:
HydroCarbon 2 G.A.C. effectively removes ozone when located at the water stream exiting an ozone contact chamber such as a protein skimmer or oxygen reactor. When used for this purpose it should be changed once per month.
Warning:
Rapid removal of yellowing substances dramatically affects the penetration of light in water, particularly UV light. This can adversely affect corals that have become acclimated to the light spectrum altered by the yellow water. They are unable to tolerate sudden exposure to UV wavelengths. If no activated carbon has been used for long periods without water change, be sure to shade the corals when the carbon is used again, and gradually acclimate them to the light over the course of a few weeks. Keep out of reach of children. For aquarium use only.
Manufacturer Info
Two Little Fishies, Inc. was founded in 1991 to promote the reef aquarium hobby with its introductory video and books about reef aquariums. The company now publishes and distributes the most popular reef aquarium reference books and identification guides in English, German French and Italian, under the d.b.a. Ricordea Publishing.