Relationship between water volumes, shapes, glass thicknesses and water holding capacity of 40 litres glass aquaria

Abstract

The study determines the relationship between water volumes, glass thickness, and water holding capacity of three shapes of 40 Litres (L) glass aquaria. Glass aquaria were designed and constructed using 3 mm, 4 mm and 5 mm thicknesses glass for Tower, Prism and Cuboid shapes in triplicate and they were tested for leakages. Water was introduced into each aquarium and monitored under room condition for 49 days. A significant difference occurred (p < 0.05) in the volume of water that can be retained by Prism shaped and 3 mm glass thickness of glass aquaria. Prism shaped 3 mm thickness glass aquaria failed in retention of water of 40 L with a significant difference (p < 0.05) within the shape for various glass thicknesses and between the shapes for various glass thicknesses. Tower and Cuboid shaped aquaria retained water, without significant difference (p > 0.05) within and between the shapes. 4 mm and 5 mm glass thicknesses retained water without significant difference (p > 0.05) within and between them for all the shapes. 4 mm and 5 mm glass thicknesses are recommended for the construction of Prism, Tower and Cuboid shaped 40 L aquaria, while 3 mm can be used for Tower and Cuboid shaped aquaria for economic reason. Aquaria builders have opportunity to offer quality aquaria to customers based on their demand using 4 mm and 5 mm glass thicknesses for 40 L Prism, Tower and Cuboid shaped glass aquaria. Opportunity for choice of glass thicknesses based on customers’ financial ability exist between 4 mm and 5 mm for Prism, Tower and Cuboid shaped glass aquaria, minimizing loss of time, money, power and materials caused by failure and increase in healthy nation, job creation and wealth for the people are attainable based on this research outcome.