Catalytic activated carbon

Catalytic Activated Carbon (CAC) for DOC Reduction

Achieve optimal water clarity and quality in your reef tank with our premium **Catalytic Activated Carbon (CAC)**—the best-performing solution for gentle and effective **Dissolved Organic Compounds (DOC) reduction**. Extensively tested in **Reef Moonshiners test tanks** and widely adopted in the community, this CAC outperforms traditional scavenging media like Purigen, granular activated carbons, and resins.

**Why Choose This CAC?**
✔ **Minimal Impact on Trace Elements** – Unlike other carbons that leach or excessively absorb trace elements, this CAC maintains water balance.
✔ **Long-Lasting Performance** – Provides **3-4 weeks** of effective DOC removal before saturation.
✔ **Ideal for Passive Filtration** – Works best in a **mesh bag placed in the sump**, ensuring steady DOC reduction without excessive stripping of essential compounds.
✔ **Versatile Application** – Can also be used in filter socks for routine DOC control.

**How to Use:**
1. **Use Only This Specific CAC** – Other brands have been tested and do not perform as well.
2. **Prepare the Carbon** – Place **300ml per 100 gallons** into a **fine mesh bag** (such as [Seachem’s Small Media Bag](https://a.co/d/83V4kWO)), rinse under tap water, and add it to your sump **after the skimmer section**.
3. **Monitor DOC Levels** – Use your **Reef Moonshiner’s ICP-MS test** to track SAC254 values.
4. **Adjust Usage as Needed** – Remove or replace once **DOC reaches ~3** to prevent over-stripping that may fade coral fluorescence.

**Why Passive Filtration?**
Using CAC in a **media reactor** can lead to clogging, decomposition, and unintended leaching. A mesh bag placement ensures **oxygen-rich water flow**, reducing the risk of anaerobic zones and maximizing efficiency.