Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 1997/07/01
[Author Prev] [Author Next] [Thread Prev] [Thread Next] [Author Index] [Topic Index] [Home] [Search]At 07:57 AM 01/07/97 -0400, you wrote: >Dear Fellow LUGnuts, > >Having returned to my darkroom to print some Leica negatives, I have been >using Kodak Polymax RC paper. I process it as archivally as possible with >a hypo eliminator (Permawash), double rinses then and air dry them on clean >plastic screens. Does anyone know if Kodak has done tests on the longevity >of RC paper? I previously used only double weight "paper" based printing >papers. But processing RC papers is sure easier and shorter. > >Anyone have experience with RC printing papers? As a general rule of thumb with RC papers, use a selenium toner if you are interested in archival permanence. Alternatively, treat them with Agfa Sistan. There is still some debate about the permanence of RC papers compared to fibre-based papers. Selenium toning or Sistan treatment brings their archival properties close to that of fibre based papers (close to, but not quite as high as, according to recent indications). If you are making a print which needs to have maximum archival properties, then use fibre based paper. This applies if you are making exhibition-quality prints, or family photographs which are likely to be cherished by the next generation of viewers. If you want the convenience and the special properties of RC papers, then at least apply the treatments indicated above to achieve maximum permanence from them. Perma-Wash is a hypo clearing agent, which although not as necessary for RC prints, is still a good idea to use. (RC papers do not absorb as much thiosulphate because they are not porous like fibre based papers.) A hypo eliminator, like Kodak's HE-1, is totally different chemically. I do not use it and I do not recommend it. - -GH