ow do you replace a side of a glass aquarium with acrylic?

Question

I have a glass 110 gallon aquarium that has the back side broken. The piece measures 60x21.5x3/8. Is there anyway to bond a piece of acrylic instead of glass that will with stand the water and pressure?

Answer 1

You can use acrylic, but you really shouldn't mix glass and acrylic on the same tank. The differences in expansion rates, thicknesses, etc will cause problems. Best you replace the broken glass with the same thickness as the original. Pure silicon is the sealant of choice for a glass tank. For a large project like yours, look in the hardware section of a department store or home improvement warehouse for caulking tube sized containers of pure silicon sealant, just be sure it says it's safe for aquariums. One brand I can recommend is GE which is available at Walmart, Home Depot and Lowes.

MM

Answer 2

Though it it not 100% recommended, on a temporary basis it sure can be done. Simply head to your local pet or hardware store and pick up some Silicone Aquarium Sealant (which is clear and is not laced with any harmful chemicals, so it's safe for fish). Use Rubbing Alcohol to prep the areas. Place the pieces together and run a bead of silicone on all sides (inside). Then smooth the seal with a flat tool or paper towel. Or even your finger. It will smell like vinegar, but as it dries the smell will go away. Hope this helps.