Sand Blasting: Aquarium Makeover

Blasting sand is a popular substrate for aquariums. It is made from a coal-burning byproduct called coal slag, which produces angular granules of varying sizes when cooled. The granules are then dried, crushed, and sorted into seven different grades of blasting sand. While it requires diligent rinsing before use, it is a great budget option for aquarium owners.

Blasting sand is inert and won't harm fish

Blasting sand is a great option for aquariums as it is inert and won't harm fish. In fact, it is a cheap and safe option for fish tanks, especially for bottom-dwellers. The sand is made from a coal-burning byproduct called coal slag. When coal melts, it produces slag, which forms angular granules of varying sizes once it cools down. These granules are then dried, crushed, and sorted into seven different grades of blasting sand.

Although blasting sand is safe for fish, it is important to rinse it before use to remove any dust or oil residue. This residue is harmless to fish, but it can make the water cloudy and affect the aesthetics of the tank. Additionally, blasting sand cannot sustain planted tanks on its own, so supplements such as fertilizer or root tabs are necessary to provide nutrients for plant growth.

One concern that fish owners may have is the sharpness of the sand, as it is used for polishing and sandblasting. However, blasting sand is no sharper than regular sand, as hardness is more important than sharpness for sandblasting. It will not hurt bottom-dwelling fish or those with sensitive bellies, such as corydoras and small pleco species.

Another advantage of blasting sand is its ability to hold down plants stably, even compared to substrates designed for plant growth. It is dense but not prone to compacting, making it easy to plant in. However, it is important to provide food for the plants' root systems. Overall, blasting sand is a safe and cost-effective option for fish tanks, providing a unique aesthetic without compromising the safety of the fish.

It's cheap and looks great

Sandblasting sand is a great option for those looking to create an aquarium on a budget. Not only is it cheap, but it also looks fantastic, giving your aquarium a sleek and stylish appearance.

One of the most significant benefits of using sandblasting sand in your aquarium is its affordability. Sand is one of the most cost-effective options when it comes to blasting media. You can typically find bagged dry blast sand for a very reasonable price, with some sources stating prices as low as $4 for a 100-pound bag. This makes it a great choice for those looking to create a beautiful aquarium without breaking the bank.

While sand is a more affordable option, it's important to note that it does come with some drawbacks. For example, sand often contains silica quartz, which can be dangerous if inhaled. Therefore, it's crucial to take the necessary precautions when using sandblasting sand and to avoid using play sand altogether.

However, if you're willing to put in a little extra effort, sandblasting sand can be a fantastic choice for your aquarium. It's important to rinse the sand well before use to remove any dust or oil residue, ensuring that your water stays clear and free of cloudiness. Additionally, sandblasting sand is available in different grit sizes, allowing you to create varying textures and inclines in your aquarium setup.

Black Diamond Blasting Sand (BDBS) is a popular choice for aquarium enthusiasts due to its budget-friendly price and black colour, which can give your aquarium a modern and elegant look. While it may have a few cons, such as its difficulty in sustaining planted tanks and its availability depending on your location, it remains a top choice for those seeking an affordable black sand option.

Overall, if you're looking for a cheap and attractive option for your aquarium, sandblasting sand is a great way to go. With its affordability and aesthetic appeal, you can create a stunning underwater environment without sacrificing your budget.

It's difficult to vacuum

Blasting sand, such as Black Diamond Blasting Sand (BDBS), is a popular substrate for aquariums. It is aesthetically pleasing and can be particularly useful for bottom-feeding or burrowing fish. However, one of the drawbacks of using blasting sand is that it can be difficult to vacuum.

Firstly, it is important to use the correct type of vacuum. A gravel siphon, or gravel vacuum, is the best tool for the job. This device combines a flexible siphon tube with a wider-diameter pipe, allowing it to suck up the sand and tumble it, releasing dirt and debris, which then float up the tube into a bucket while the sand sinks back down into the aquarium.

While gravel is easier to vacuum than sand because of its weight, sand can still be effectively cleaned with a gravel vacuum. The key is to hover the vacuum slightly higher above the sand, so that it is lifted, cleaned, and then dropped back down. This technique requires practice and patience, as sand is denser than gravel and debris, and so is more difficult to separate from the substrate.

Another challenge when vacuuming sand is that it can be easy to accidentally vacuum up too much of the substrate along with the dirt and debris. To avoid this, it is important to approach the substrate with the siphon at an angle. The attached tube should be kinked between suctions to ensure that the sand falls back down to the bottom of the aquarium.

In addition to vacuuming, there are other ways to keep blasting sand clean. Sand-sifting fish, such as Corydoras catfish, can help to keep the sand turned over and free from debris. However, these fish are not a substitute for vacuuming, and they will need to be fed with sinking food. Regularly running your fingers through the sand can also help to dislodge dirt and debris, but this method will make your arm wet and is therefore best combined with a water change and mechanical filter clean.

It may contain rust particles and oil

Blasting sand can be a great budget-friendly option for aquariums. However, it is important to be cautious when using it, as it may contain rust particles and oil. While these substances are not harmful to fish, they can be aesthetically unappealing and affect the overall appearance of your aquarium.

One of the key issues with blasting sand is the presence of rust-like granules. These granules can be noticeable, especially if you are aiming for a specific aesthetic in your aquarium. The rust particles can give the sand a reddish or brownish tint, which may not be desirable for those seeking a uniform colour. To address this issue, it is recommended to thoroughly rinse the blasting sand before use. While rinsing may not completely eliminate all rust particles, it can help reduce their visibility and impact on the overall aesthetic.

Another concern with blasting sand is the potential presence of oil residue. Oil can create an oily film or layer on the surface of the water, which is not only unsightly but can also affect the health of your fish. It is crucial to diligently rinse the blasting sand to remove any oil residue. Additionally, using hot water or boiling the sand can help ensure that any remaining oil is eliminated, providing a safer environment for your fish.

To ensure the safety and well-being of your fish, it is important to take the necessary precautions when using blasting sand. While the presence of rust particles and oil may not directly harm your fish, it can impact the water quality and aesthetics of your aquarium. By thoroughly rinsing and, if necessary, boiling the blasting sand, you can reduce the chances of these substances affecting your fish habitat. It is also advisable to regularly monitor the water quality and perform water changes as needed to maintain a healthy environment for your aquatic pets.

In conclusion, while blasting sand may contain rust particles and oil, diligent preparation and maintenance can mitigate these issues. By taking the time to properly prepare the sand and maintaining a consistent care routine, you can create a safe and aesthetically pleasing environment for your fish to thrive in. Remember, the health and well-being of your aquatic pets should always be a top priority, so be sure to take the necessary steps to ensure their comfort and happiness in their habitat.

It's not completely black

While Black Diamond Blasting Sand (BDBS) is a great budget option for black aquarium sand, it is not completely black. Upon close examination, you will find rust-like granules sprinkled throughout the substrate. This may be an eyesore for some, but it does not take away from the overall aesthetic of the black sand.

The presence of rust-colored particles in BDBS is due to the high iron oxide content, which can range from 5% to 12%. When exposed to water and oxygen, the iron in the sand can turn into rust, resulting in the formation of rust-colored clumps and a heavy metallic scent. This oxidation process can occur even if the sand is thoroughly rinsed before use.

It is important to note that the rust may not necessarily be harmful to fish or plants in the aquarium. However, there have been reports of shrimp deaths and bottom-dwelling fish experiencing health issues when using BDBS. The sharpness of the sand and the presence of glass-like rods or needles can also be a concern for some species, such as corydoras and kuhl loaches.

To mitigate the potential risks associated with using BDBS, it is recommended to use a medium to fine grit size, as the coarser grades tend to have more sharp edges and glass-like rods. Additionally, rinsing the sand with hot water can help remove any oil residue, which can cloud the aquarium water. Using gloves during the rinsing process is also recommended to protect your hands from the abrasive nature of the sand.

Overall, while BDBS offers a budget-friendly option for black aquarium sand, it is important to carefully consider the potential drawbacks, especially if you plan to keep bottom-dwelling or sensitive fish species.

Frequently asked questions