Silicate Ex can also be placed in a reactor to guarantee optimum flow; make sure that the pellets do not rub against each other, which leads to wear and dust in the aquarium. If the silicate has dropped to the desired level, remove the Silicate Ex for later reuse. Note: Silicate Ex also binds phosphate. Therefore first remove phosphate with Colombo Phosphate Ex to increase the effectiveness of Silicate Ex. Also, do not add phosphate to the water when Silicate Ex is in use.