Glass aquarium manufacturers have used 100% silicone sealant exclusively from its inception in order to join glass plates, making aquariums of every size and shape. Glass joints made with silicone sealant can withstand a great deal of pressure, making obsolete the original aquarium construction method using angle-iron and putty. This same silicone is also used to make hinges in aquarium lids or even for minor repairs. Not all commercial silicones are safe for aquarium manufacture, nor is silicone used for the manufacture of acrylic aquariums as silicones do not have long-term adhesion to plastics.

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