Posted: Sat May 27, 2017 7:19 am Re: POST YOUR BASKING AREA PICTURES HERE !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Steve...thanks again for inquiring. Yes, I agree about the mat material..for the most part all I can tell the group is that low and high density polyethylenes in general may have less propensity for leaching compared to other plastics (eg,, polystyrene, PVC, etc.). Of course, the source of the manufacture, materials, etc., will always lead to some unknowns about the relative safety of such materials.
The lexan is very nice but not the easiest material to work with. The thickness we used was 0.220 inch (roughly under 1/4 inch material) and with a proper table saw and blade designed for plastic, the cuts would have been very easy and the project much quicker (and required less muscle). I used the scribe and break method and then sanded the rough edges square. If one plans correctly, they can minimize the number of edges that need to be sanded. Ensuring square edges for the acrylic cement "welding" process is an absolute. I had limited experience working with lexan and with some trial and error, we were able to finish the project. The overall cost of the lexan and other materials (lexan sheet was the primary cost) was a little over $100...not the most inexpensive of platforms but one that has a nice finish and is very solid in construction. I have seen similar plastic designs being advertised and sold for much more than what we spent.
I should also mention that we actually designed the main topper to fit into the recessed part of the aquarium top plastic, so the whole unit is relatively secure.
I hope this helps and thanks again...one more picture attached of the nearly completed unit.
Best,
Dr. B
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