Re: [Leica] Re: B&W revisited

[RBedw51767@aol.com]

George:

Thanks for your input.  I wasn't aware that PYRO is as toxic as you stated.
When I use it I will definitely use gloves.  I agree with you about Xtol.  It
has become my developer of choice and I am getting exceptional results.
Thanks to Dan Post's suggestions the high contrast problem that I was having
has been corrected.

Again, thanks for your comments.

Bob Bedwell
Greensboro, NC 



In a message dated 11/4/98 9:47:00 PM Eastern Standard Time,
ghuczek@sk.sympatico.ca writes:

<< At 05:45 PM 04/11/98 EST, you wrote:
  I have read so many good things about PYRO and your
 >experience will be a big help.
 >
 I'll point out a few other things about pyro that you should be aware of.
 First, there is the issue of toxicity.  It is hazardous.  You must take
 precautions when using it, particularly with regards to handling, because
 it can be absorbed through the skin.  Nitrile gloves are recommended for
 use with it.  Pyro can do nasty things to your liver and other organs.
    Another issue which comes up frequently among pyro users is the
 variability of staining that arises when using a new or aged batch.  It
 seems as if stain density increases after a certain number of rolls have
 been developed.  Hutchings recommends keeping some "old brown" on hand to
 mix with a new batch.  Others have reported good results with the addition
 of Excel to compensate for stain variability, however it can introduce
 additional fogging and density increases.  (8 mL of Excel per litre of
 regular strength PMK is a good starting point.)  Reduce film speed by 1/3
 to 1/2 stop and underdevelop by 20% to compensate for density changes to
 the formula when Excel is used.
    Having said all this, I'd still like to put in a plug for more "modern"
 developers, particularly ones like XTOL which are more environmentally
 friendly, safer to handle, and quite capable of yielding excellent results.
 
  >>