nwaas.com

I was just wondering today if anyone has ever thought of a use for used filter charcoal? Could we somehow recycle it. Two possibilities came to mind, and maybe you'll have more.

Could it be used as a substrate in the aquarium? Black obssidian used to be the rage before we figured out that it was wearing the barbels off cories.

Can it be used in plant pots in the aquarium, or houseplants out of the aquarium?

Any other suggestions? Denny

Definitely do not use it as substrate. pH changes in the aquarium can cause filter carbon to release the toxic organics that it has collected back into the water.

I believe I've heard of people mixing it with potting soil for houseplants or garden soil for the garden.

You could probably burn it in the barbeque after it dries out.

Don't use the microwave to dry it out. I thought it would be a good idea to give that a try once, but as soon as the power was turned on, the carbon started exploding in showers of sparks! Fire hazard!