New Smoking Device need help

I have built a couple of devices in the past, but i have some serious questions i would like answered before i go ahead with my newest device.


So recently I went to lowes and bought some very random items, Non Toxic Putty, Filter Hose washers, and Lamp tubes.


My question falls along the whole Filter hose washer. The reason i bought it was because i wanted some sort of metal mesh that would hold the weed from falling through the socket I got. This is the link to the item i bought... http://www.lowes.com/lowes/lkn?action=productDetail&productId=24320-76403-74116

I cut out the metal mesh and placed it inside the socket which i am using for a bowl. Now i have heard that smoking with aluminum will release toxins that are extremely carcinogenic, so my question is that; is the metal mesh made of aluminum, and should i not use it? (the site wont tell me )

I also learned a huge lesson in using putty to seal the whole where i put the slide, I use to be using Silicone II until i realized that the vapors of uncured silicone are methanol and ammonia, so I am now using Non toxic Blue Stik Putty, and electric tape.

And finally to rap up my long tangent my last question was that the product i am using for the slide are long metal tubes used for some sort of lighting fixture. the package says it has a zinc plated finish. Because the flame will heat up the tube slightly, should i not use it?

Thanks

 

Thanks for your advice, but aren't coffee filters made from that cloth- like paper? .. I was able after a few try's to cut a small metal mesh but i can take it out if a coffee filter works better.