Is Polyethylene Foam Reef Safe?

[Daniel@R2R]

Other members of the family with whom I wish to live peacefully are complaining that the pleasant hum of my return pump is driving them crazy. So...I need something to work as a mat to help reduce the sound of my return pump. I have some (what I believe to be) polyethylene foam that came with the aquarium setup (it's an ESHOPPS Mariner 70), and I'm wondering if that is reef safe. It would be easy to cut a piece and place it under the return pump and restore peace and harmony to my family members.

Here's a picture of what I'm thinking of cutting and using:

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley]

Polyethylene is certainly safe. The question is whether there is anything else that it might release. I’d use it after doing this test.

Put it in a bucket of fresh water and squeeze it around like a sponge. If it seems to cause any foaming in the water, I’d avoid it. If that doesn’t happen, I’d just rinse it well and use it.

 

[Daniel@R2R]

Polyethylene is certainly safe. The question is whether there is anything else that it might release. I’d use it after doing this test.

Put it in a bucket of fresh water and squeeze it around like a sponge. If it seems to cause any foaming in the water, I’d avoid it. If that doesn’t happen, I’d just rinse it well and use it.

Thanks, Randy!

 

[D.WhiteShark]

What about something like the aqua mesh pads that BRS sells. I've used something similar before

Aquamesh Black 1 - Extra Coarse

Progressive density mesh mechanical filtration system can be used as a system or separately. Aquamesh #1 is great for removal of large debris and free floating particles most commonly used as a first stage to allow longer use of finer stages between cleanings. Dimensions:19.5" x 24" x 1.5"...

www.bulkreefsupply.com

 

[mfinn]

silicone hot pads have always worked for me when submerged pumps make noise.
also shortening the return hose so the pump hangs in midwater has helped in the past.