Seachem Matrix Carbon

Seachem Matrix Carbon is a truly unique activated carbon. It is formed as a spherical bead for optimum hydrodynamics, and will not pack. It permits maximum water flow and contact with its high density of macro porous binding sites. Matrix Carbon has a very low ash content as indicated by its minimal impact on pH. Even when added to distilled water, it does not raise pH above 7.0.

While all carbons contain phosphate, regardless of false claims to the contrary, Matrix Carbon has the lowest detectable leeching of phosphate content of all major carbon brands tested. Matrix Carbon outperforms other high grade carbons by at least two-fold when compared for total capacity to remove aquarium organic matter, rate of adsorption, and duration of use.

While carbon is generally considered to be a chemical filter, that is not precisely true. It is in fact a mechanical filter as well, but it is only capable of mechanically filtering objects of molecular size. It functions through extremely small cracks and crevices, called macro pores and micro pores. Micro porous carbons remove primarily metals and smaller ions (like trace minerals) and are best suited to air filtration, while macro porous carbons remove primarily larger organic molecules (like nitrogenous waste) and are best suited to water filtration.

The ingredients from which a carbon is manufactured determine whether it will be macro- or micro porous. Carbons made from coconut shell and other organic products form micro porous carbons, while carbons made from bituminous coal form macro porous carbons. Matrix Carbon is a bituminous coal-based, macro porous carbon. It is the only spherical carbon on the market, allowing for maximum water flow. It is sized to allow full penetration by water, but not small enough to escape filter bags.

All carbons contain phosphate. However, that phosphate DOES NOT come from washing the carbon with phosphoric acid. Most carbons are washed with sulfuric acid. The phosphate is contained in the ash from the carbon source. The main purpose of acid-washing is to remove ash. Because of Matrix Carbon’s hydrodynamic properties, more ash is washed from our carbon than any other. Therefore, it has the lowest rate of leeching of phosphate on the market.