silica sand

[surfup]

was wondering i silica sand could be used as a base for my deep sand bed.
i saw this stuf, its grain is a little bigger than sugar
the manufacturer states on the bag that its 99% clean, in a 50 lb bag,and its comprised of mostly quartz
i intend to cover this with about 180lb of argonite sand,some crushed coral ,and rubble

any help is appreciated

[afss]

People have used and still use silica sand for dsb. There are some who claim that the increased silica can aid in diatom algae growth, others claim that is false. Some claim that you must use aragonite based sand for its buffering etc, others claim that there is little to no advantage as its buffering abilities are so minimal.
I have never used silica sand, but if i had to i don't think i would be to wrried about it
If you live near the border you could always try to get some south down or yard right sand.

Scott

[surfup]

going over the border crossed my mind,but since sept 11 i've heard that the boarder is alot tighter.and i dont know if they would feel i was up to something lugging bach a couple of hundred pounds of sand,
harmless as it is i dont need the agraviation

:(

[afss]

As far as the border goes its really no problem.. if you are only getting 5 or 6 bags you through it in your trunk.. if they ask about it just tell them that its what you use for winter weight. Or just tell thm the truth.. they will look at you funny and let you go. Its when you have corals that you can get in trouble. The problem you run into is getting into the states.. coming back there is no real problem.
Scott
IF you want to go sometime let me know when and if i can i'll go too and take my car.
Scott

[surfup]

given i have a p/u truck that might be the way to go
extra weight,
when i can go well depend on work ,im in crane rental and theres no schedule
if i make plans i usally end up working overtime or all weekend
:angry:

[afss]

If you have a pick up then you could easily pass it off as weight for the winter and just act like you have had it there for ages... Put a tarp over it and that would explain why the bags look so new