Calcium reactor
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A calcium reactor is a device used to supply calcium and trace elements to a reef aquarium, and may also be used in elaborate freshwater and brackish aquariums where freshwater clams and other invertebrates need a constant supply of calcium. It dissolves calcium carbonate media by injecting carbon dioxide into a reaction chamber, producing an acidic solution that frees calcium and carbonate ions to maintain alkalinity and calcium levels.
Quick Facts
- Format
- aragonite (mainly CaCO3)
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Background
The calcium reactor operates by forcing calcium-rich media, typically aragonite, into contact with water injected with carbon dioxide to create carbonic acid, increasing solubility. The reaction frees calcium and carbonate, supplying the aquarium with water rich in Ca2+ and CO2−3. A bubble counter visually or audibly measures the CO2 rate, and a needle valve or solenoid valve regulates the bubble rate.
A feed pump controls water exchange volume, as high flow can reduce efficiency and waste CO2. Some reactors siphon water into the recirculation pump input, but media compaction can increase back pressure; placing a gate or needle valve on the outlet side improves flow. Peristaltic pumps are effective against pressure and provide adjustable continuous flow with minimal maintenance.
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Sources
Compiled from Wikipedia and the sources listed below. Text from Wikipedia is available under CC BY-SA 4.0; this entry is adapted from it.
- Wikipedia: Calcium reactor (CC BY-SA 4.0).
- Word definitions: the Codexery glossary, each quoted from its Wikipedia article.
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