Let me comment further on this.
The addition of ascorbic acid is seen first as a loss of maximum density in the highest densities, not in the lowest densities, and even then only when measured by UV. For Blue sensitive processes the loss of stain is compensated by the greater energy provided by the synergism of ascorbic acid in the mix. The result is that for Blue sensitive processes there is never a reduction in maximum effective printing density with added ascorbic, even with loss of the stain.
However, to get more precisely on point, let me say this again. If you like the stain, which I value highly (especially for UV sensitive processes), do not add more than about 10-20 ml of a 1% solution of ascorbic acid per liter of working Pyrocat-HD solution.
Sandy
jdef said:
The addition of ascorbic acid will reduce stain, beggining in the lowest densities, and moving up the scale as ascorbic acid is increased, until the stain is completely eliminated. So, a little ascorbic acid will reduce general stain, but more will begin to reduce image stain.
Jay