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Diafine for microfilm

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CarbonArc

Member
Joined
Jan 23, 2026
Messages
6
Location
Oregon
Format
Sub 35mm
Hello, in this post (https://www.photrio.com/forum/threads/diafine-in-rotary-processors.7966/post-106971) a user talks about using diluted Diafine as a developer for microfilm with good results. I can't find any other info on the web about using Diafine like this. Has anyone else here done the same with a diluted Diafine part a?

I would like to use Kodak Imagelink FS at 100 ISO or faster.

Donald Qualls is still active here it seems, but I cannot DM them.
 
Welcome to Photrio.
Typing @Donald Qualls may work to attracting Donald's attention.
 
Thank you. Perhaps he will respond later.

While we are on the subject of diafine, does anyone use it for developing slide film?
 
I will be processing Kodak FS & EPM RA with peracetic acid bleach this weekend to try to make slides with it. I should have something to say about it next monday.
 
I use Diafine in a motorised Rondinax with good results. However, it can give grainy results with some films, and if you are using a very small format film that might not be good. I get acceptable results with half-frame 35mm.
 
I didnt get to my reversal processing this weekend, nor did I scan. But I did take some photos on the light table really quick. It seems like The FS likes to be exposed at about ISO 50 in Diafine.

Photos are through the loupe, at 25, 50, & 100 ISO. Reversed digitally for viewing.
 

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I tried developng the Kodak FS in Diafine twice, with 6 30 second RO water washed inbetween the first and second dev. The film came out fogged. Not a success.

I also tried reversing the film with 3% Hydrogen Peroxide and Distilled White Vinegar as bleach, and then Iron Out as Fogger/Second Developer. That film came out black, with faint positive images on that were visible only when the light reflected off of the film. The film itself was too dark to see any light through at all.
 

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I think diluting diafine will kill it pretty quickly.

If you want something for microfilm, try Pyrocat HD. Or POTA.

Microfilm is only tamable to a degree.
 
I am pretty happy with normal Diafine. At ISO 50 it looks good and I can make good enlargements. I just wanted to see if developing twice would push the film at all, it didnt.
 

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