4 replies to this topic

[AndersT]

I'm planning on adding a base made of grout to a new outworld. However, last time I did this, my queen died after exploring the grout outworld. Since then I haven't worked with the material. I'm not sure if the two things were connected, but it did happen after the grout got wet, which I've heard can be a problem if the grout hasn't properly cured. The queen started twitching, behaving weird and ended up dead the next day.

 

So, how exactly do you go about curing a base layer in an outworld properly? You can't exactly soak it, which I have heard some suggest. I could mist it to keep it moist, but I'm not sure if that would be enough. And how long should I wait to be absolutely certain that nothing bad could happen?

 

And could it quite simply just have been because I used the wrong grout? I think I read Crystals mentioning that some grout was dangerous while some wasn't. I use LIP grout, which is the only stuff I've seen on Danish shelves. 

[Crystals]

Usually letting grout dry completely is sufficient.  Depending on the brand and amount of grout used will affect the time needed.  For example a 1cm thick layer will cure much faster than a 10cm layer.

 

Once my grout has completely cured, I have never had a problem, even if I re-wetted it. 

On occasion, I have let the grout dry completely for a month, then I soaked it for a few days in water with a good aquarium water conditioner that removes heavy metals and almost any chemical that can harm fish.  Then I let it dry completely again.

 

I have never seen LIP grout.  Looking it up, it is a brand name.  What type of grout was it?  Looks like they carry several different types.

 

If you are uneasy, try adding some wild workers.  If they all die within 2 weeks (with food/water available) then there is something wrong with the grout, container, silicone, water, food, air (aerosol sprays in vicinity), or possibly even something else.

[AndersT]

I have never seen LIP grout.  Looking it up, it is a brand name.  What type of grout was it?  Looks like they carry several different types.

I'm not sure it exists outside of the EU. The stuff I got is just labeled as grout. It doesn't seem to have any sort of further description than that. They also carry something they call rustic grout and multi grout, but it's none of that stuff. 

 

I guess I'll try again. Might try the wild worker method you suggested, once the ants start waking up here. Thanks for the help.

[Crystals]

No worries, let us know how it goes. 

[Inlineants]

Typically, when grout is still curing it can cause an irritant to the ants. The grout you are using may have a higher level of concrete which could pose a problem. With that being said use more water and less grout maybe even a little sand; this will reduce the concrete levels. You can test the brick by holding it on your skin. A brick that is cured just enough to hold its form would start irritating your skin within 30 seconds to a minute. You'll know your brick is ready once it can be placed on your skin without irritation, which may take several days.

Edited by Inlineants, April 3 2016 - 2:20 PM.