IceCap Cut-to-Fit Ammonia Removal Pad (IC-ARP-1810)
The IceCap Cut-to-Fit Ammonia Removal Pad (SKU: IC-ARP-1810) is an authentic, chemical-remedial filtration layer distributed by CoralVue to protect sensitive aquatic livestock from sudden, lethal spikes of ionized and un-ionized ammonia (NH4+ and NH3). In closed aquarium environments, fish waste, uneaten food, and decaying organic detritus continuously break down into toxic waste byproducts. If a system undergoes a sudden biological filter collapse (such as a power outage killing off beneficial bacteria) or experiences a heavy stocking influx, ammonia levels can spike dramatically, causing gill damage, respiratory distress, and swift livestock loss. The IC-ARP-1810 steps in as an active defense layer, utilizing embedded, specialized resin binders that pull these dangerous compounds right out of the circulating water column.
This versatile chemical pad features a dense, structurally rigid fiber weave matrix that measures a generous 18 by 10 inches out of the box. Rather than buying overpriced, proprietary replacement cartridges for your specific brand of hang-on-back, internal, or canister filters, you can use the original cartridge as a template and cut this pad to shape using standard kitchen scissors. As water forces its way through the dense fiber network, the pad acts as a mechanical sieve to trap free-floating detritus while the infused resin particles exchange targeted ions to trap dissolved nitrogenous waste. It serves as an excellent temporary water clarifier for moving fish, setting up new quarantine facilities, or stabilizing a newly established aquarium display during its initial break-in phase.
Key Features
Mitigates New Tank Syndrome: Acts as a chemical safety net during the first few weeks of a new aquarium setup while your biological nitrifying bacterial colonies are still colonizing the rockwork.
Zero Chemical Leaching: Once the embedded resins capture and bind the ammonia molecules, they lock them securely within the pad's structural core, preventing them from back-leaching into your system if the pad becomes fully saturated.
Extends Life of Fine Polishing Pads: Placed early in your multi-stage media flow, the pad's fibrous profile catches coarse waste, preventing fine-gauge polishing fleece from clogging prematurely.
(Note: This filtration item includes one 18x10-inch treated chemical pad sheet. For long-term nutrient management, it is designed to be used alongside standard biological media blocks and routine partial water changes).
