Does B-Ionic Calcium Buffer Expire?

[prefect1]

Just what the topic asks...

I still have a couple of bottles I used on a tank I tore down approximately two years ago. So that is about how old they are.

I don't see anything about expiration on the bottles or ESV's site.

Anyone know?

Cheers.

 

[tazdevil]

I would imagine it would. Most solutions have a shelf-life, at which point they begin "breaking down" or seperating into their basic elements. Changes in temp, humidity, light are just some of the factors that can speed up or slow down this process (like the storage of wine for example).

 

[Anonymous]

from the esv site:

Unlike many of our competitors we also list lot numbers on all of our products along with date tested and filled. All testing is done in our own quality control laboratory.

We believe the aquarist is entitled to know when a product was packaged. Since different aquarists use chemicals in different ways (e.g. varying rates and durations of container opening and closing), it would be impossible to set one expiration date for each lot. However, we supply simple instructions for testing the viability of chemicals with limited shelf life (e.g. Calcium Hydroxide).

 

[Anonymous]

i'd suggest, that if you can't find the info, you email the co. w/your questions :wink:

there should be a lot # stamped/printed on the bottles

 

[prefect1]

i'd suggest, that if you can't find the info, you email the co. w/your questions :wink:

there should be a lot # stamped/printed on the bottles

No such number here

I am just going to order new stuff, thanks to all that responded.

Cheers.

 

[Anonymous]

For all practical purposes the answer is really no. B-Ionic is merely a mix of various chemical compounds and chemicals don't really 'expire' however they can over time become contaminated and something highly reactive like calcium hydroxide can react with CO2 in the air and over time become calcium carbonate. However with the two-parts, as long as the bottles are kept sealed between use you aren't likely to have any problems whatsoever.

 

[tazdevil]

Tom, how about the dissasociation of various products in chemicals. I'll give you an example: The dye we inject for MRI scans. It is made from gadolinium, which is a heavy metal and is poisinous. This metal is bound (chelated) to a solution to allow it to be injected safely, and is eliminated from the body before it can disassociate. However, over time on the shlef, it will disassociate. Aspirin does this as well. Just would make me think 2 year old solution sitting on a shelf would become unsafe or ineffective, and why take the risk.