Technical Data

Agfa B/W Chemicals – Film processing

-1
400
500

Along with lab equipment and film and paper quality, The following characteristics decide the choice of the
chemicals are a major factor for the efficient operation negative developer:
of a photographic lab. They contribute to the smooth • speed of development
running of both finisher and amateur labs. Fluctuations • control of contrast
in picture quality and unnecessary costs caused by rejects • speed yield
and wasted time must be prevented.
• fine-granularity
The variety of a photographic lab's work calls for a wide • resolving power
range of developers, fixers and auxiliary products to • sharp contours
guarantee the consumer reliability and economy. Agfa's • yield
range of photo-chemicals meets these requirements.
• replenishability
With the ever-rising quality standards optimum results • storage life
can no longer be achieved solely by emulsion techno- These features vary from developer to developer. The
logy. consumer has to decide which developer characteristics
are needed, for instance sharpness or fine-granularity.

is used under license of Agfa-Gevaert AG

2 C-SW16
Index Page

1. Storage, safety at work, handling photochemicals ........................................................................... 4

2. Short product descriptions ..................................................................................................................... 4
3. Processing instructions .......................................................................................................................... 4
3.1 General instructions ...................................................................................................................................................... 4
3.2 Temperature ..................................................................................................................................................................... 5
3.3 Speed ................................................................................................................................................................................. 5
3.4 Contrast ............................................................................................................................................................................. 5
3.5 Lengthening time for multiple batches (small tank, tray, drum) ..................................................................... 5
3.6 Development times of Agfapan films ........................................................................................................................ 5

4. Use of developer concentrates .............................................................................................................. 6

4.1 Rodinal .............................................................................................................................................................................. 6
4.2 Rodinal Special ............................................................................................................................................................... 7
4.3 Studional Liquid ............................................................................................................................................................. 8

5. Use of powder developers ...................................................................................................................... 9

5.1 Refinal ................................................................................................................................................................................ 9
5.2 Replenishment of B/W developers .......................................................................................................................... 10

6. Stop bath (interrupter) .......................................................................................................................... 11

7. Use of fixers .......................................................................................................................................... 11
7.1 Agefix ............................................................................................................................................................................... 11
7.2 Acidofix ........................................................................................................................................................................... 11
7.3 Fixer monitoring ........................................................................................................................................................... 11
7.4 Silver recovery .............................................................................................................................................................. 12
7.5 Fixer recycling ............................................................................................................................................................... 12

8. Final wash ............................................................................................................................................. 12

9. Use of auxiliaries ................................................................................................................................. 12
9.1 Agepon ............................................................................................................................................................................ 12
9.2 Algezid II ......................................................................................................................................................................... 12
9.3 Sistan New ...................................................................................................................................................................... 13

10. Environmental protection and disposal ............................................................................................. 13

11. Further information .............................................................................................................................. 14
12. Chemical range .................................................................................................................................... 15

C-SW16 3
1. Storage, safety at work, handling • Refinal
photochemicals The allround fine-grain balancing developer, with high speed
yield and constant contrast. For processing both in small tanks
Storage and drums and in tank processors with replenishment.
The chemicals should be stored in their original packaging at
temperatures between 8 °C and 25 °C. If the temperature is too Fixers
low, certain substances may crystallise in the liquid concentrates, • Agefix
which could result in wrong bath mixtures if this is not taken Liquid fixer concentrate. Depending on dilution can be used as
into account when making up the mixing. The effects of direct standard or fast fixer.
heat must also be avoided, because high temperatures can trigger
a premature chemical reaction in concentrates that are prone to • Acidofix
oxidation, and this in turn can lead to the bath becoming spoilt. Acid fast fixing salt on ammonium thiosulphate basis.
Safety aspects when working with photochemicals
Auxiliary products
There are certain precautions (e.g. avoiding contact with food
and drinks) and safety measures which should be observed when • Agepon
working with photographic processing chemistry. They include Wetting agent concentrate for making up the final bath.
adequate ventilation at the workplace and, where necessary, Ensures that the water drains evenly from the film surface, and
the wearing of protective gloves and goggles. so cuts the drying time.
Observing all the safety precautions will ensure a high level of • Algezid II
safety at work. Nevertheless, with particularly sensitive people, Highly active biocide to stop the formation of micro-organisms
the possibility of irritation to the skin and mucous membranes in washing tanks and wash water desilvering units.
and, in isolated cases, allergic skin reactions, cannot be excluded
when working with photographic chemicals. • Sistan New
Image silver stabilizer. Protects films from the deterioration of
There are special regulations concerning the transport and image silver caused by environmental pollution.
handling of dangerous substances which apply to certain
photochemicals.These are given on the packs of all products
which must be specially labelled. The instructions enclosed 3. Processing instructions
with the products or the labels on the packs contain extra safety
recommendations. 3.1 General instructions
Safety data sheets in several languages are available for all It is a well-known fact that the results of development depend
photochemical products from the appropriate Agfa sales not only on the time, temperature and type of solution, but also
organisation. These safety data sheets also contain specific on the process method used (tray, small tank, drum, large tank).
information on the substances contained in the products. To obtain reproducible results, the following instructions should
be followed:
2. Short product descriptions • For processing in small tanks, agitate (tilt) the tank continuously
for the first minute, and then tilt every thirty seconds. Avoid
Developers developing times under three minutes.
• Rodinal • For processing in drums (rotary process), choose a speed
greater than 30 rpm (changing the direction of rotation). Avoid
The traditional one-shot developer with very good contour developing times under three minutes.
sharpness and high speed yield. The concentrate can be matched
to any subject contrast by diluting as appropriate. In both cases the mixed developer solution is put into the
developing tank at the specified temperature (as a rule 20 °C).
• Rodinal Special During development make sure that the chosen temperature is
The fine-grain developer for individual negative development. kept constant.
It balances contrast, and produces sharp and fine-grain nega-
tives.
• Studional Liquid
The liquid negative developer with exceptional sharpness and
fine-granularity, good speed yield and constant contrast over
a long period.

4 C-SW16
3.2 Temperature The following is a guide: after processing one film in 500 ml
developer, lengthen the developing time by about 10 %. With a
If the specified developer temperature of 20 °C cannot be kept five-litre tank volume lengthen the time after ten films.
to, the developing time must be correspondingly shortened or
lengthened. The developing times at different temperatures Idle time between Development lengthened
(18 °C to 24°C) are shown in the relevant time/temperature two batches by
graphs. few hours (but development none *
on same day)
1 – 3 days +5%
3.3 Speed 4 – 8 days + 10 %
The film speed given is the effective speed for the film-developer 1 – 2 weeks + 15 %
system involved (with a mean contrast of γ 0.65). over 2 weeks + 20 %

If mistakes are made in exposure, it is still possible to produce The extra times given above do not change if several films are
standard negatives with the aid of this figure. For instance, a simultaneously processed in one batch.
slightly overexposed Agfapan film can be developed in Rodinal
1 + 25 with standard results, in spite of the wrong exposure. 3.6 Development times* of Agfapan films
(with different speed ratings)
3.4 Contrast
Agfapan APX 100 Professional
The developing times given are guides. Depending on the subject
contrast, the negative contrast (gradation of the negatives) may Developer Temperature Exposed as
ISO 100/21° ISO 200/24°
be affected by the developing time, i.e. the films are developed at
a lower or higher contrast (gamma value). If the subject contrast is Refinal 20 C° 6 min 9 min
24 C° – 5 min
very great, the negatives are developed flatter (γ = 0.55). With low
Studional Liquid/ 20 C° 4 min 6 min
subject contrast the negatives are developed to higher contrast
Rodinal Special 24 C° – 3.5 min
(γ =0.75).
Rodinal 1 + 25 20 C° 8 min 11 min
Remember that the speed yield can rise or fall, i.e. a development- 24 C° – 8 min
induced lower or higher film speed than that specified by the
manufacturer must be compensated by a longer or shorter Agfapan APX 400 Professional
exposure. (This must be individually found for each film/developer Developer Temperature Exposed as
combination). ISO 400/27° ISO 800/30°
Refinal 20 C° 4.5 min 6.5 min
Generally development aims at medium negative contrast
24 C° – 8 min
(γ = 0.65). Remember however that condenser enlargers require
Studional Liquid/ 20 C° 4 min 6.5 min
flatter negatives, and enlargers with colour mixing heads Rodinal Special 24 C° – 6.5 min
sometimes require steeper negatives.
Rodinal 1 + 25 20 C° 10 min –
24 C° 8 min –
3.5 Lengthening time for multiple batches * Development in small tanks and trays.
(small tank, tray, drum)
Further information on the individual negative developers is
To ensure consistent speed yield and contrast, the developing given in the respective product description.
times for each successive batch must be lengthened. It is not
Depending on the film/ developer combination used, different
possible to give exact times, since these are governed by the
speed settings and different negative contrasts may result.
idle time between two batches and the method of storing the
A higher negative contrast can be compensated by a flatter
developer (glass or plastic bottles, brimful or part-full, capped
paper grade.
bottle). If used developer is kept in brimful tightly capped bottles
between batches, the guiding figures given in the table below
should be used.

C-SW16 5
4. Use of developer concentrates Rotary process (drum)
Use some of the mixing water for rinsing out the chemical tanks. Contrast APX 100 APX 400
This removes chemical residues, making it easier to reuse the γ 0.55 4 min –
tanks properly. γ 0.65 7 min 10 min
γ 0.75 10 min –
4.1 Rodinal Agitation
An allround developer concentrate, tried and tested for more Tray: Continuous agitation.
than hundred years, on p-aminophenol basis for mixing one-
Small/big tank: Continuous for the first minute, then every
shot developers. Rodinal features very good contour sharpness
30 seconds.
and a high speed yield. The concentrate can be diluted to match
any special subject contrast. Drum: Continuous, changing the direction of rotation.

Mixing instructions Dilution and developing times (at 20 °C)

Rodinal is diluted with water as shown in the tables (1 part
concentrate + 25 or 50 parts water). The water must be brought Rodinal 1 + 50
to 20 °C before the concentrate is added. Use a finely graduated Small tank, tray
measure or pipette for making up the solution. Contrast APX 100 APX 400
Rodinal diluted for use will only keep for a short time, and γ 0.65 17 min 30 min
should therefore be mixed immediately before use.
Rodinal 1 + 50
Yield
Developing times at different temperatures (small tank, γ = 0.65)
One-shot developer: with 500 ml concentrate about fifty films 24
Developer temperature (°C)
(135-36 or 120 roll-film) can be developed.

Life
Rodinal will keep for at least two years in the original pack. The 22
concentrate will keep for at least six months. The working solution APX 100 APX 400
cannot be reused after development.

Dilution and developing times (at 20 °C)

20
Rodinal 1 + 25
Small tank, tray
Contrast APX 100 APX 400
18
γ 0.65 8 min 15 min 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 26 28 30
Developing time (min)
Rodinal 1 + 25
Developing times at different temperatures (small tank, γ = 0.65)
24 Agitation
Developer temperature (°C)

Tray: Continuous agitation.

Small/big tank: Continuous for the first minute, then every
30 seconds.
22
Drum: Continuous, changing the direction of
APX 100 APX 400
rotation.

20

18
2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20
Developing time (min)

6 C-SW16
Film speed (exposure index) 4.2 Rodinal Special
Depending on the film/developer combination used, in practice Developer concentrate ready for multiple use after dilution. It
film speeds may differ from the nominal speed rating. The produces fine-grain sharp negatives with balanced contrast.
following table shows the speed to be set (in practice) for the Processing times are particularly short.
various film types (γ 0.65).
Mixing instructions
Film type Dilution Time * Speed
Agfapan 1 + 25 8 min ISO 125/22° The concentrate is diluted with water 1 + 15 (= 1 part concentrate
APX 100 1 + 50 17 min ISO 160/23° + 15 parts water).
Agfapan 1 + 25 10 min ISO 320/26°
APX 400 1 + 50 30 min ISO 400/27° Yield
Fuji Neopan 1 + 25 4.5 min ISO 250/25° • 10 –12 films 135-36 or rollfilms 120 per litre
400 Prof. 1 + 50 8 min ISO 250/25° • 50 – 70 sheet films 9 × 12 cm per litre (= 0.5 – 0.75 m²)
Fuji Neopan 1 + 25 3.5 min ISO 400/27°
1600 Prof. 1 + 50 8 min ISO 400/27° To ensure uniform speed yield and contrast, the developing time
Ilford PAN-F Plus 1 + 25 6 min ISO 50/18° must be lengthened for each successive batch (see page 4).
1 + 50 12 min ISO 64/19°
Ilford FP 4 Plus 1 + 25 8 min ISO 100/21° Life
1 + 50 18 min ISO 125/22° The concentrate will keep for at least two years in the original
Ilford HP 5 Plus 1 + 25 8 min ISO 400/27° pack. Developer mixed ready for use will keep for three months
1 + 50 ** in brimful tightly capped bottles. Used developer should be
Ilford Delta 100 1 + 25 9 min ISO 100/21° stored separately from fresh.
1 + 50 16 min ISO 125/22°
Ilford Delta 400 1 + 25 8 min ISO 400/27°
1 + 50 18 min ISO 400/27° Developing time (at 20 °C)
Ilford Delta 3200 1 + 25 11 min ISO 1250/32° Small tank, tray
1 + 50 **
Contrast APX 100 APX 400
Ilford SFX 200 1 + 25 6 min ISO 100/21°
1 + 50 15 min ISO 125/22° γ 0.65 4 min 6 min
Kodak Plus-X 1 + 25 6 min ISO 125/22°
1 + 50 13 min ISO 125/22° Rodinal Special
Kodak Tri-X 1 + 25 7 min ISO 500/28° Developing times at different temperatures (small tank, γ = 0.65)
1 + 50 14 min ISO 500/28° 24
Developer temperature (°C)

Kodak T-MAX 100 1 + 25 5.5 min ISO 64/19°

1 + 50 15 min ISO 80/20°
Kodak T-MAX 400 1 + 25 6 min ISO 400/27°
1 + 50 11 min ISO 400/27° 22
Kodak 1 + 25 8 min ISO 1250/32°
T-MAX p3200 1 + 50 16 min ISO 1250/32°
Kodak 1 + 25 4.5 min ISO 640/29° APX 100 APX 400
Recording 2475 1 + 50 10 min ISO 640/29° 20
* Small tank or tray processing at 20 °C.
** Not recommended.

18
0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18
Developing time (min)

Rotary process (drum)

Contrast APX 100 APX 400
γ 0.55 – 3 min
γ 0.65 3.5 min 4 min
γ 0.75 5 min 6 min

C-SW16 7
Film speed (exposure index = γ 0.65) Developing times (at 20 °C)
Film type Time * Speed Small tank, tray
Agfapan APX 100 4 min ISO 100/21° Contrast APX 100 APX 400
Agfapan APX 400 6 min ISO 320/26° γ 0.65 4 min 6 min
Fuji Neopan 400 Prof. 3 min ISO 320/26°
Fuji Neopan 1600 Prof. 3 min ISO 800/30°
Studional Liquid
Ilford PAN-F Plus 3 min ISO 50/18°
Developing times at different temperatures (small tank, γ = 0.65)
Ilford FP 4 Plus 3.5 min ISO 100/21°
24

Developer temperature (°C)

Ilford HP 5 Plus 4 min ISO 400/27°
Ilford Delta 100 3.5 min ISO 160/23°
Ilford Delta 400 4.5 min ISO 400/27°
Ilford Delta 3200 6 min ISO 1250/32° 22
Ilford SFX 200 4 min ISO 125/22°
Kodak Plus-X 5 min ISO 125/22°
Kodak Tri-X 3.5 min ISO 400/27° APX 100 APX 400
Kodak T-MAX 100 5 min ISO 80/20° 20
Kodak T-MAX 400 5 min ISO 400/27°
Kodak T-MAX p3200 6 min ISO 1250/32°
Kodak Recording 2475 6 min ISO 640/29°
* Small tank or tray processing at 20 °C. 18
0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18

4.3 Studional Liquid Developing time (min)

Developer concentrate ready for use after dilution. Outstanding

Rotary process (drum)
sharpness and fine-grain. Good speed yield and consistent
gradation over long processing periods. Active, rapid developer. Contrast APX 100 APX 400
γ 0.55 – 3 min
Mixing instructions γ 0.65 3.5 min 4 min
Studional Liquid is diluted with water 1 + 15 (= 1 part concen- γ 0.75 5 min 6 min
trate + 15 parts water). If only a part-quantity of the concentrate
is used, squeeze the plastic bottle before recapping to protect Film speed (exposure index = γ 0.65)
the concentrate from oxidation. The best method is to mix the
Film type Time * Speed
complete quantity and keep the solution in full bottles.
Agfapan APX 100 4 min ISO 100/21°
Specific gravity of freshly mixed solution (at 20°C): Agfapan APX 400 6 min ISO 320/26°
Fuji Neopan 400 Prof. 3 min ISO 320/26°
1.019 – 1.025.
Fuji Neopan 1600 Prof. 3 min ISO 800/30°
Yield Ilford PAN-F Plus 3 min ISO 50/18°
Ilford FP 4 Plus 3.5 min ISO 100/21°
• 10 – 12 films 135-36 or rollfilms 120 per litre
Ilford HP 5 Plus 4 min ISO 400/27°
• 50 – 70 sheet films 9 × 12 cm per litre (= 0.5 – 0.75 m²) Ilford Delta 100 3.5 min ISO 160/23°
To ensure uniform speed yield and contrast, the developing time Ilford Delta 400 4.5 min ISO 400/27°
must be lengthened for each successive batch (see page 4). Ilford Delta 3200 6 min ISO 1250/32°
Ilford SFX 200 4 min ISO 125/22°
Life Kodak Plus-X 5 min ISO 125/22°
The concentrate will keep for at least two years in the original Kodak Tri-X 3.5 min ISO 400/27°
pack. Developer mixed ready for use will keep for three months Kodak T-MAX 100 5 min ISO 80/20°
in brimful tightly capped bottles. Used developer should be Kodak T-MAX 400 5 min ISO 400/27°
stored separately from fresh. Kodak T-MAX p3200 6 min ISO 1250/32°
Kodak Recording 2475 6 min ISO 640/29°
* Small tank or tray processing at 20 °C.

8 C-SW16
5. Use of powder developers Refinal
Developing times at different temperatures (small tank, γ = 0.65)
5.1 Refinal 24

Developer temperature (°C)

Allround very high yield balancing developer in powder form
which, as drum, small tank or tray developer and – with proper
replenishment – as deep tank developer, will ensure a 22
consistently high speed yield and uniform gradation over
particularly long periods. Refinal produces fine grain and sharp
contours. APX 400 APX 100

Mixing instructions 20

Stir Part A into at least 75 % of the total quantity of water

needed at 40 °C until completely dissolved. Then stir in Part B.
After it has dissolved, top up with water to the final volume.
18
It is not advisable to weigh part-quantities for smaller volumes, 0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18
since the chemicals may have been separated by vibration during Developing time (min)
transport.
Rotary process (drum)
Specific gravities of freshly mixed solutions (at 20 °C):
Contrast APX 100 APX 400
1.064 – 1.070 = developer/ 1.072 – 1.078 = replenisher
γ 0.55 3 min 3.5 min
Yield γ 0.65 5 min 4.5 min
γ 0.75 8 min 6.5 min
With replenished processes – approx. 14 ml replenisher per
135-36 film: 71 films 135-36 with 1 litre replenisher.
Agitation
Yield without replenishment: Tray: Continuous agitation.
• 10 – 12 films 135-36 or rollfilms 120 per litre Small/big tank: Continuous for the first minute, then every
• 50 – 60 sheet films 9 × 12 cm per litre (= 0.5 – 0.65 m²) 30 seconds
Drum: Continuous, changing the direction of rotation.
Replenishment: see page 11.

Life Process in tanks

The developer can be kept dry in the original pack at room
The optimum developing time is governed by the printing process
temperature for at least two years. Unused fresh solution will
concerned, the processing temperature and the gradation required.
keep in brimful tightly capped bottles for about six months.
The times can be individually determined, depending on the film
Used developer should be stored separately from fresh. The life
type and the above criteria. The following developing times are
of used developer is reduced to about three months. The life of
given here as guides.
replenished developer in tanks with floating lids is at least
twelve months.
Temperature Time
18 C° 7 – 9 min
Developing times (at 20 °C) 20 C° 5 – 7 min
Small tank, tray 22 C° 4 – 5 min
Contrast APX 100 APX 400 24 C° 3 – 4 min
γ 0.65 6 min 5 min

C-SW16 9
Film speed (exposure index = γ 0.65) In the case of over-replenishment (= developer activity too
high) top up with developer tank solution until the fresh state is
Film type Time * Speed
reached.
Agfapan APX 100 6 min ISO 160/23°
Agfapan APX 400 5 min ISO 500/28° NB! The replenisher must never be mixed with fresh solution or
Fuji Neopan 400 Prof. 3 min ISO 320/26° diluted with water. In the case of under-replenishment (= developer
Fuji Neopan 1600 Prof. 2 min ISO 400/27° activity too low), the replenishment rate must be raised or part of
Ilford PAN-F Plus 4 min ISO 50/18° the tank contents replaced with replenisher.
Ilford FP 4 Plus 7 min ISO 160/23°
Adjustments of this kind can be repeated a number of times.
Ilford HP 5 Plus 5 min ISO 640/29°
Ilford Delta 100 5 min ISO 125/22°
Ilford Delta 400 4 min ISO 400/27°
Ilford Delta 3200 6 min ISO 1250/32°
6. Stop bath (interrupter)
Ilford SFX 200 4 min ISO 125/22° A stop bath is recommended between developer and fixer if the
Kodak Plus-X 4 min ISO 125/22° machine configuration permits. This has the following functions:
Kodak Tri-X 3.5 min ISO 400/27° • It stops post-development.
Kodak T-MAX 100 5 min ISO 80/20°
• It stops alkaline developer being carried over into the fixer. This
Kodak T-MAX 400 4 min ISO 400/27°
prevents the formation of dichroic fog.
Kodak T-MAX p3200 6 min ISO 1600/33°
• It permits the use of a neutral fixer (e.g. FX-UNIVERSAL) in
Kodak Recording 2475 5 min ISO 800/30°
combination with FX recycling.
* Small tank or tray processing at 20 °C.
• It lengthens the life of the fixer.

5.3 Replenishment of B/W developers The 2 % acetic acid stop bath is mixed as follows:
Continuous replenishment of Refinal with Refinal M replenishers • 1 part acetic acid (60 %) + 30 parts water.
ensures consistent results over long periods of processing. This With machine processing, the stop bath can be replenished with
means the speed yield is uniformly good and the gradation is a 5 % acetic acid solution. Formula for the replenisher:
constant. Theoretically the developers can be replenished
indefinitely. Replacement is only necessary if the tank solution • 1 part acetic acid (60 %) + 11 parts water.
has been contaminated (e.g. by glue residues, gelatine and silver
sludge). Process data

Level replenishment in tanks Stop bath Time Replenisher Replenishment rate

tank solution (at 20 – 25 C°)
The replenishment rate is the same as the amount of solution 2 % acetic 10 – 30 s 5 % acetic 910 ml/m² film
carried over by the films. The tank contents are topped up to the acid acid 50 ml/film 135-36
correct level with replenisher as needed. Then stir the tank 60 ml/roll film 120
solution well and let any suspended particles settle. 9.8 ml/sheet film
9 × 12 cm
Automatic replenishment
The effective replenishment rate depends on the throughput.
The rates for a high throughput are relatively lower than for a
small throughput, or when there are long idle times between
batches.
The following replenishment rates should serve only as guides:
• per m² film = 250 ml
• per 135-36 film = 14 ml
• per 120 rollfilm = 17 ml
• per 9 × 12 cm sheet film = 2.7 ml

Remedies for over- and under-replenishment

Incorrect replenishment is indicated by the negatives being too
flat or too steep and/or having too low or high density in spite of
accurate exposure, developing time and developer temperature.

10 C-SW16
7. Use of fixers 7.2 Acidofix
Rapid fixer in powder form on ammonium thiosulphate basis
7.1 Agefix
with optimum chemistry for fixing speed, yield and storage life.
Highly concentrated liquid fixer on ammonium thiosulphate
basis with optium chemistry for fixing speed, yield and storage Mixing instructions
life. Depending on dilution, Agefix can be used as standard or The pack contents are stirred into the appropriate quantity of
rapid fixer. water at about 40 °C. After cooling to working temperature the
fixer is ready for use.
Mixing instructions
The concentrate is diluted with water (at approx. 30 °C) at a Specific gravity of freshly mixed solution (at 20 °C):
ratio of 1 + 7 or 1 + 5. The fixer is ready for use after thorough 1.074 – 1.080
stirring.
Acidofix process data
Standard fixer:
1 part concentrate + 7 parts water Tank solution Fixing time Yield per litre
(at 20 – 25 C°)
Rapid fixer: Acidofix 2 – 3 min approx. 1 m²
1 part concentrate + 5 parts water 15 – 30 films 135-36
15 – 30 roll films 120
Specific gravities of freshly mixed solutions (at 20 °C): 100 sheet films 9 × 12 cm
1.048 – 1.054 = dilution 1 + 7 50 ml/film 135-36
1.062 – 1.068 = dilution 1 + 5 The fixing times depend on the film type (emulsion, silver
Agefix process data coating), temperature, agitation and the state of exhaustion of
the solution. The shorter times apply to freshly mixed fixers.
Stop bath Time Replenisher Replenishment rate Used solutions require longer fixing times.
tank solution (at 20 – 25 C°)
Agefix 3 – 5 min Agefix 910 ml/m² film During use the composition of the fixer changes. To achieve
1+5 1+4 50 ml/film 135-36 perfect results the fixer should therefore be checked regularly
60 ml/roll film 120 and replaced in good time with fresh solution (see Fixer
9.8 ml/sheet film monitoring).
9 × 12 cm
Agefix 6 – 8 min Agefix as stated above Life
1+7 1+6 Acidofix can be kept dry in the unopened original pack for at
least two years. Ready solution should be used within three
Yield without replenishment (per litre): months.
• approx. 1 square metre film
• 15 – 30 films 135 - 36 7.3 Fixer monitoring
• 15 – 30 rollfilms 120
A rising silver content, dilution and changes in acidity reduce
• 100 sheet films 9 × 12 cm the fixer’s strength. The PH, silver content and specific gravity –
During use the composition of the fixer changes. To achieve particularly in unreplenished processes – should be continuously
perfect results the fixer should therefore be checked regularly monitored.
and replaced in good time with fresh solution (see Fixer The chemical trade supplies acid test paper for checking the pH,
monitoring). e.g. Lyphan L 669 paper from Kloz Co., Berlin. The paper strip is
Continuous replenishment of machine processes ensures uni- dipped into the solution and the change in colour compared
form results over lengthy periods, and consequently a long fixer with a test chart. This paper is accurate enough for the fixer pH.
life. The specific gravity is measured with a hydrometer (aerometer).
The fixer is poured into a graduated cylinder, into which the
Life hydrometer is then put. The specific gravity can be read off on
Agefix will keep for up to two years in the unopened original the hydrometer scale from the highest point of the solution
pack. Opened packs and ready solutions should be used within level. The viewer’s eye should be level with the surface of the
three months. solution. The higher the hydrometer floats, the greater the
specific gravity is.

C-SW16 11
To test the silver content of used fixers, a strip of standard silver 9. Use of auxiliaries
test paper about 5 cm long is dipped into the solution. After a
few seconds the test strip is compared with the colour chart. 9.1 Agepon
The values for solution in use are: This is a concentrated wetting agent used as a final bath after
• acidity between pH 4 and pH 8 the last wash. It ensures even draining of the water off the film
• the specific gravity should not fall much below the reading for surface, so that no droplets, stains or streaks are left. Agepon
fresh solution cuts down the drying time.
• silver content not over 4 g/litre (in properly replenished Mixing instructions
machine processes the silver content does not exceed this
figure). Agepon is diluted with water 1 + 200 (= 1 capfull Agepon to one
litre water). Higher concentrations do not improve the results.
If the figures obtained vary very much from those given above, it
is advisable to mix fresh fixer to maintain the quality of the The films are agitated in the wetting solution for a half to one
results. minute, and then dried without rinsing.

Yield
7.4 Silver recovery
About 100 to 200 films can be treated in one litre of Agepon.
Electrolytic silver recovery is possible from fixers which contain The solution must be replaced when the water does not drain
up to 4 g silver per litre. If the quantities of fixer are large evenly off the film surface.
enough, it may be worthwhile to use a silver recovery unit.
Smaller quantities should be dealt with by a suitable external Life
company. The concentrate will keep virtually indefinitely in closed bottles.
The life of ready solution depends on the type of water used.
7.5 Fixer recycling Diluted Agepon should not be used for longer than two weeks.
In the same way as with the AGFACOLOR processes, finishers
can also recover the silver from black and white fixer overflow, 9.2 Algezid II
and recycle the solution to produce replenisher. For this FX- This is a powerful biocide for stopping fungi and algae formation
UNIVERSAL must be used. Detailed information on this subject in wash tanks and silver recovery units. Properly used Algezid II
is available from Agfa agents. does not have any adverse effects on photographic materials. It
must not be put into the processing solutions.

8. Final wash Use

A thorough final wash is essential to ensure good storage lives After shut-down 2 ml Algezid II per ten litres is added to the
for all black and white negatives. Depending on temperature, washing tanks. The water does not need to be drained off before
agitation and wash water throughput rate, the following wash- the next batch.
ing times are needed for all films:
Life
• 15 + 5 minutes at 20° – 25 °C
The concentrate will keep virtually indefinitely in closed bottles.
• 20 + 5 minutes at 15° – 20 °C
The temperature of the wash water should not vary by more than
+ 5 °C from the temperature of the process solutions.
Washing rate: approx. 2 – 3 litres per minutes (running).
The washing time can be reduced to about 6 minutes for Agfa
black and white films – at water temperatures of approx. 20 °C –
by the following measures:
• running wash, water quantity 6 litres per minute
• several exchanges of water (at least three) with adequate
agitation (tilt the developing tank at least five times).

Drying
• At 30° – 40 °C in a drying cabinet.
• At room temperature in a dust-free place.

12 C-SW16
9.3 Sistan New 10. Environmental protection and disposal
This is an image silver stabilizer for black and white materials. Wash water from processors containing small quantities of
Sistan New protects films from changes in the silver image caused process solutions are subject to local and often general effluent
by environmental effects. These faults initially appear as reddish regulations covering disposal into the public sewage system.
to yellowish-brown highlight discoloration, and the complete
negative may be destroyed by the silver being converted to a If the effluent regulations do not permit used photographic
colloidal form. Its causes are industrial and traffic fumes, and solutions to be discarded into the public sewers even after
fumes from heating oil, plastic paints, compressed boarding, treatment, they must be disposed of as special waste.
cardboard with an acid content, glues, sticky tape, freshly cut The packaging of Agfa photo-chemicals conforms to the
PVC and brittle rubber, and also ozone and all substances giving requirements for safety (during transport, storing and handling)
off peroxide. and recycling.
Mixing instructions Photo-chemical packaging must not contain any harmful
impurities if it takes part in collection and recycling systems.
For use 50 ml Sistan New is diluted with 950 ml water. The For this purpose the packs must be absolutely empty, that is free
correctly processed and washed negatives are agitated for one of leftover powder, sludge and drops. Photo-chemical containers
minute in Sistan New solution after the final wash. should preferably be rinsed out as well. It is best to use some of
NB! Too high a Sistan New concentration can lead to stains the mixing water for this.
which take some time to appear. Care should then be taken that Queries on environmental protection and waste disposal can
the fronts and backs of negatives are wiped before drying to be answered by the environment officers in the Agfa Sales
avoid partial over-concentration caused by dried drops of Sistan organisations, or referred to the central Environmental Protection
New. Transport rollers on mechanical processors should be Department in Leverkusen, Germany.
carefully wiped clean to stop the Sistan New solution
crystallizing on them.

Yield
Up to 2 m² black and white film per litre ready solution
(equivalent to approx. 30 – 40 roll or 35 mm films). The solution
can be used down to the last drop.

Life
The concentrate will keep virtually indefinitely in closed bottles.
Mixed solution should be kept in capped glass bottles.

C-SW16 13
11. Further information
The information given here is based on the evaluation of typical
products at the time when this technical data was printed. Slight
deviations are possible through production tolerances. Agfa-
Gevaert is constantly endeavouring to improve the quality of the
products and therefore reserves the right to change product
specifications without notice.
Notification of any technical changes, such as replenishment
rates or mixing instructions, will be given immediately in the
pack instructions and will be updated in all publications.
Additional information on the Agfa black-and-white chemicals
is contained in the following publication:

Technical Data C-SW56-E:

Agfa black-and-white paper processing chemicals.

14 C-SW16
12. Chemical range
Process solution Product name Pack size Code

Negative developers/ Rodinal 10 × 125 ml BVL2E

liquid concentrates 6 × 500 ml BVL3G
Rodinal Special 10 × 125 ml BVL4J
Studional Liquid for 3 × 16 litres BVL5L

Negative developers/ Refinal for 5 × 5 litres BVLZA

powder form Refinal M replenisher for 2 × 50 litres A55F4

Stop bath Acetic acid (60 %) 5 litres BQEBX

Fixers Agefix 10 × 125 ml BVJ6E

6 × 500 ml BVJ7G
6 × 1 litre BVJ8J
3 × 5 litres BVJ9L
Acidofix for 5 × 5 litres BVJ4A

Auxiliary products Agepon 5 × 250 ml BVMPS

3 × 1 litre BVMQU
Algezid II 1 litre BUNDZ
5 litres BR88G
Sistan New 500 ml 5G6UL

Agfa, the Agfa Rhombus, Acidofix, Agefix, Agepon, Agfacolor,

Agfapan, Algezid, Atomal, Refinal, Rodinal, Sistan New and
Studional are registered trade-marks of Agfa-Gevaert AG,
Leverkusen, Germany.
C-SW16 15
Technical Data Sheet C-SW16-E17
Date: 11/2004 17th edition

is used under license of Agfa-Gevaert AG