aluminum tank

[b125killer]

I have a extruded aluminum and plexiglass cube box. I was thinking that it would make a neat tank. I'm just not to sure how well it will do it being aluminum and plexiglass. I will need to seal it. It was never meant to be a fish tank. I was thinking of just using the silicone to seal it and just run it along the aluminum to seal that from the rest of the tank. Or would it be okay to have exposed aluminum in the tank. I know the aluminum will oxidize. Just not to sure if it would be safe. especially in such a small space. the box is only 10.75x10.75x10.5 That works out to be around 5 gallons. Or do you think it would be more trouble than it's worth?

[Mugwump]

I wouldn't chance it, myself...not all aluminum is made the same, plus continued contact with water will eventually break it down some. Boats, and such, are painted/coated...that even involves an acid bath to etch the surface for the paint to adhere properly .....even if your vessel is coated...I'd ask...with what?.....

[b125killer]

Yea I know it will breakdown some. plus with it not being a tank I don't think it would be worth making it into one. I think it would cost more to turn it into one than going out and getting a 5 gallon tank. Also I'm not to sure the plexiglass wouldn't warp also. it's not that thick. 

[Barb]

But it would make a good terrarium!
Barb

[PaulineMi]

That's a great idea Barb.

[b125killer]

A terrarium could be neat. I've never had a terrarium. I'm not to sure how I would make one. I would think it's more than just adding dirt and plants. Is there anything special I would need?

[Mugwump]

Dirt/ plants/ with or without a small lizard???....etc

[BillT]

Like Mug said not all aluminum is the same. I know there is marine aluminum, but I don't know anything more about it.
I do know that when i was a kid I managed to fairly rapidly corrode an aluminum tray of my Mom's quite badly with a high salt solution.

You might possibly seal it with epoxy paint and silicon.
If you want to quickly see if the plexiglas would bow, thrown in a trash bag and fill it with water.