Ferric oxalate - how old is too old?

[sly]

I've not done any pt/pd prints since the fall. I've been trying to do test strips today, and my exposure times are getting up to 16-20 minutes and they still look lousy. My usual times with my tanning lights are in the 3-8 minute range.

I'm using Na2 method. Bought the chemicals in solution from B&S. I think my ferric oxalate solution is from last summer. It might be older. It has been kept in the fridge when not in use. Is it just too old? I think I've read that the other solutions will keep forever, but the ferric oxalate expires eventually.

 

[Jarvman]

I heard a year with the B&S ferric oxalate. Sure hope thats true, haven't got my first print yet!! Suppose it all depends on the climate though :-|

 

[Jim Graves]

Sly ... go over to the B&S forum site and ask Rich or Dane Sullivan directly ... I'm sure they'll know.

http://bostick-sullivan.invisionzone.com/index.php?showforum=16

 

[pateeid]

have u test PH? it should be around 5.6-5.8

 

[36cm2]

I spoke with B&S about this a few days ago, very randomly, and they told me ferric oxalate should last 6 months.