Aluminium Plate idea for Tintype in Japan

[D_Quinn]

Hi,
I have been trying to find an alternative aluminum plate for tintype in Japan because it seems to be difficult to get the one being manufactured for Tintype.
I have so far found two aluminum plates online (DYI shops) and would like to ask you questions about them.
About the black coloring on the black side, one of my findings says Colored anodic oxidation Coatings (black). The other says Acrylic polyester coloration (black). Which is more preferable or usable for tintype work?
Also, for the plate size of 5x7in., what thickness of aluminum would you recommend if I were to pick from the selection of 0.5mm (0.02 in.) or 1mm (3/64in.)?
Lastly, I am a bit worried about my silver bath when I soak an aluminum plate in the bath. Could I use the same bath for glass plates afterward, in a different session (day)?

Thank you in advance!

 

[Donald Qualls]

The anodize coating is artificially induced aluminum oxide; the dye is applied before the final step seals the oxide coating. This coating should be as nearly as possible to chemically inert against anything but strong alkali or hydrochloric acid (or acid mixtures that include hydrochloric, such as aqua regia). By contrast, an acrylic coating may soften or peel in an ether solution like your collodion.

I'd recommend the 1 mm thickness; the thinner plate (IMO) is likely to bend or flex too easily (as from whatever is in the back of your plate holders to keep the plate correctly positioned, whether springs or wads of paper waste).

Unless the aluminum has been freshly cut or abraded before pouring the collodion, the naturally formed oxide layer on the back and cut edges should prevent any reaction with the silver nitrate bath, so the bath should be unaffected.

That said, I'm writing only from a chemical basis; I have no actual experience with collodion process. Black enameled or lacquered plates are the ones I see most recommended for this use -- perhaps ironically, this kind of coating was referred to, back when collodion was a current, standard process, as "Japanned".

 

[D_Quinn]

Donald,

Thanks for the useful information.
It didn't occur to me about an acrylic coating that might be affected, but you are right. I'd ruined a plastic jar when I poured the collodion solution into the jar, hahaha.
Some kind fellow gave me a suggestion about a place where I might be able to get enameled plates as you suggested, so I try to get in touch with the firm.
Many thanks for the useful advice!!

 

[Donald Qualls]

Many thanks for the useful advice!!

You're very welcome. I know everyone here would love to see examples once you reach the point of producing tintypes (or any other collodion images) you're happy with.

 

[talzand]

Hello all!

D_Quinn, I am also in Japan! I was wondering if you would be willing to share where you buy your wetplate chemicals from.

I have read that Takahashi Tokichi Shoten is an option (not sure though as I haven't been able to figure out how to contact) and I have also talked with Shippan Labo and they have offered to sell me a prepared collodion (but I would rather mix the chemicals on my own).

Anyway, if you are willing to share, I would love to know where you purchase your wet plate collodion chemicals. I am also looking for silver nitrate, developer and fixer chemicals (all to mix on my own rather than premade).

It would also be amazing to know where you found black aluminum sheets in Japan.

Thank you in advance, hope your tintype adventure is going amazing!