IPW Industries Inc (3mm60CTC) 4 lbs Bulk Activated Carbon Charcoal Pellets for Aquarium Fish Tank Koi Reef Filter
3mm60CTC 4 lb Bulk Activated Carbon Pellets for Aquarium Filtration
Premium coal-based carbon pellets engineered for superior hardness, high CTC activity, and extended service life in freshwater, saltwater, and reef systems
Coal-based adsorption for serious aquarium filtration
Coal-Based Carbon
Superior hardness and longevity compared to coconut shell alternatives. Steam-activated for high surface area and consistent adsorption performance across chlorine, organics, and dissolved contaminants.
60 CTC Activity
High carbon tetrachloride number indicates strong adsorption capacity for chlorine, chloramine, volatile organic compounds, and trihalomethanes. Effectively removes odors and discoloration from aquarium water.
3mm Uniform Pellets
Consistent 3mm sizing ensures even water contact, minimizes channeling, and reduces dust compared to granular carbon. Uniform particle distribution maximizes bed utilization and extends filter run time.
Low Dust Processing
Rigorous washing and screening removes fine particles and residue. Minimal dust release preserves water clarity during startup and reduces stress on fish, coral, and invertebrates.
Multi-Tank Compatible
Effective in freshwater, saltwater, and reef applications. Removes ammonia, heavy metals, medications, and organic compounds without leaching phosphates or altering pH when properly rinsed.
Works with canister filters, sumps, media reactors, and filter bags
The IPW Industries 3mm60CTC pellets fit any aquarium filtration system that accepts bulk media. Compatible with Fluval, Eheim, and Marineland canister filters, custom sump chambers, fluidized media reactors, and nylon filter bags. Use in freshwater community tanks, cichlid systems, planted aquariums, saltwater FOWLR setups, and reef aquariums with SPS and LPS corals. Also suitable for koi ponds and decorative water features requiring chlorine and organics removal. Not a direct replacement for Jacobi Aquasor A9231-J coconut carbon or 1 cubic foot GAC bags, but offers coal-based alternative with higher hardness rating.
Replace every 4-8 weeks depending on bioload and water volume
Before First Use
Rinse pellets thoroughly with RO or dechlorinated water until runoff is clear. This removes residual dust and prepares the carbon surface for optimal adsorption without clouding your aquarium.
Light to Moderate Bioload
Replace carbon in lightly stocked tanks or systems with minimal feeding. Adsorption sites become saturated over time, reducing effectiveness for chlorine, organics, and odor compounds.
Heavy Bioload or Medication
Replace more frequently in heavily stocked tanks, after medication treatments, or following algae blooms. Exhausted carbon loses capacity and can release trapped contaminants back into water.
Water Quality Issues
Replace immediately if water develops yellow tint, persistent odor, or clarity issues despite regular maintenance. Monitor ammonia and nitrite levels when introducing fresh carbon to established biofilter systems.
Coal-Based Durability
Higher mechanical hardness resists breakdown and extends service life compared to softer coconut shell carbons in high-flow applications
Multi-System Versatility
Effective across freshwater, saltwater, and reef environments without phosphate leaching or pH disruption when properly prepared
4 lb Bulk Value
Economical bulk packaging for multiple changes or large filtration systems. Resealable for long-term storage in dry conditions
60 CTC Performance
High carbon tetrachloride number ensures strong adsorption for chlorine, chloramine, VOCs, and trihalomethanes in municipal water sources
