Acrylic Tank

[alphabetic]

Compared to its glass counterpart, can anyone determine the expected longevity of an acrylic tank (before it yellows or cracks/crazes, for instance). While it scratches much easily, I believe it's alot stronger than glass?

 

[Matty P]

Not as long as glass. You would be much better off opting for a glass tank.

 

[Bullrock74]

Acrylic aquariums' seams are chemically bonded. Glass aquariums' seams are siliconed together. This silicone can dry and fail over time whereas a chemically bonded acrylic seam will last as long as the acrylic itself does. I don't think current acrylic aquariums are likely to "yellow." It is true that they can be scratched easily, though. But, scratches in acrylic can be removed with the right polishing equipment.

 

[MasterDrummer]

I have a 17 year old acrylic tank in my living room. (It's older than me ) And it hasn't yellowed or cracked. Its a perfectly good tank.

 

[Aphotic Phoenix]

Even glass tanks can be scratched...but acrylics are much easier to damage via scratches. If you are thinking about an acrylic tank don't worry so much about yellowing or breakage...do consider the kind of set-up you'll have though. For example, if you'll be using a lot of rocks that you'll have to move during cleaning there will be a risk of scratches if you bump the tank wall. Also, if you ever get green spot algae you'll have to be extra careful while trying to remove it.

 

[ChaseTheBetta]

I've had a 2 gallon acrylic tank for over a year. There aren't that many scratches on it. No noticeable ones, that is. I just bought a 5 gallon acrylic a few months ago, it also has no scratches.

 

[KhaosInc]

I've had the acrylic tank in my living room for over 10 years now... scratched yes... but no yellowing, and no issues. I would assume acrylic would outlast a glass tank by generations, assuming proper care was taken.