laterite

[brewmaster15]

Does Laterite have any effect on pH. Im thinking no...but need a definite answer.

tanks!

-al

[sn8k]

To say that laterite will have no effect on pH isn't quite accurate... as the chemical composition of laterite varies. In general, it will contain high amounts of iron hydroxide but there could also be "impurities" such as silicates and trace minerals. All laterites share the primary characteristic of being relatively inert and having minimal affect on pH.

Hope this helps :)

Mark K...

[ChloroPhil]

Al,

Laterite is made up of a layer of Aluminum atoms standwiched between to layers of SiO. It's super duper ancient tropical soil that's been weathered and oxidized to death. It won't affect pH as long as it's underneath some other substrate. If it's by itself you'll have a tank full of mud. :)

The outer layers are negatively charged and will attract free protons which would technically increase the pH if left to its own devices.

Best,
Phil