I found a large plastic container today at the recycling center.
I am wondering if it will be safe to use as a possible primary fermenter for 10 gallon batches.
Here is what I know. It is thick translucent #2 HDPE plastic and holds about 15 gallons (it has markings up to about 3/4 of the way and the final volume is 12 gallons/ 45liters) and formerly held an acid based CIP sanitizer. The sanitizer was for the dairy industry it appears. It is a phosphoric/sulfuric acid based sanitizer called fc-298 made by IBA inc… It has a handle on top and a main cap and a vent cap on top.
So, it would seem to me that if I were to rinse it well with water a few times, perhaps take a pH reading of the final rinse it is feasible this will be safe to use? Can anyone think of any reasons not to use this?
I have never been one to ferment in plastic but I brew 10 gallon batches at times or have 10 gallons of cider so it would be nice to have a one large fermenter rather than 2 5/6 gallon ones going.
Or maybe if not a fermenter it would be a great water collection vessel? I get my water from a roadside spring and am constantly scrounging around for every empty bucket or keg I have to maximize my collection capacity.
Any thoughts out there folks?
Sláinte Mhath!