PVC or ABS?

[ODell]

I know I have read about which one is the better choice, for either an aquatic or terrestrial set-up, but I can't find the thread/info by searching. Anyone know which is the safe kind of plastic pipe?

 

[lilsoul]

I would use abs because pvc tends to become brittle over time and abs dose not.

 

[Greatwtehunter]

ABS all the way! I use it for my Ambystoma burrow systems and I absolutely love it. Plus it's black already so I don't have to worry about painting it. Oh I forgot to mention don't throw your scrap pieces into a fire.

 

[Jennewt]

I knew about PVC - the stuff water pipes are made of. I had to Google ABS to figure out what it is. Interestingly, it is the kind of plastic that Lego bricks are made of. Also, black plumbing pipes are made of ABS.

 

[pesco]

I've always used glass/ceramics, but now I am considering using some plastics as well.

I am a bit concerned that they could leak some chemicals into water. Are you sure they are chemically inert under water?

 

[Greatwtehunter]

Well after tons of searching all I could find out was that there was a slight possibility of leaching chemicals into the water, and even this seemed to be speculation. Although the same two conditions that had to be met first kept coming up. It had to be immersed in water for a long time AND exposed to a sustained high heat source. I never did find any conclusive proof to keep me from countinuing to use it.