Got a question.--Clearing Type 55 Neg

[spb854]

I'm interested in getting some Polaroid 55 film for my 4 x 5 for some picture taking and then processing the negative.

Reading the literature, it says to use sodium thiosulfite to "clear" the negative.

Me thinking now...........

Since the negative is already processed, it seems that the above chemical could be substituted with hypo clearing agent (sod. sulfite/ sod. metabisulfite) to get the same results. OR does the negative actually have to be fixed?

What do you guys think?

 

[Roger Hicks]

I've only ever used sulphite -- and that's what the instructions call for!

 

[GeorgesGiralt]

Hi !
"Reading the literature, it says to use sodium thiosulfite to "clear" the negative."
I wonder if you got this right. My memory speaks of Sodium SULFITE not THIOSULFITE ....
But they may have changed something since last time I used PN55.
BTW, the sulfite helps cleaning the neg from processing chemicals and improving keeping properties.

 

[David A. Goldfarb]

You're misreading the instructions. The neg is cleared in sodium sulfite, and you could probably just use Hypo Clearing Agent, if you have it on hand.

 

[Alan9940]

I remember reading in one of Ansel's books that he finalized processing of Type 55 negs in regular fixer; after the standard sodium sulfite bath. I've shot quite a bit of Type 55 over the years and have never done anything other than the usual clearing bath followed by a water wash. I have 55 negs that are probably 25+ years old that are still pristine.

 

[drpsilver]

27 Aug 2007

spb854:

As others have stated you will wand to clear T55 negatives with sodium SULFITE. Adams did indeed fix some of his T55 negatives, but that was only to harden the emulsion.

I have had good results with clearing the negatives in plain water. It takes about 7 or 8 times longer, but you do not need to deal with any chemicals (easier to deal with in the field). I use an old 4x5 sheet holder in a bucket of water. When you peel the packet open remove the packets of chemistry (along the perfs) and place the negative and clip in the tank. over time the adhesive that holds the clip to the neg will soften enough for you to remove the clip. Do not be concerned with the dark blue/brown water it is the oxidised remains of the "caustic gel" on the neg.

After a the neg is clear I wash for a few minutes in clean water, Photo-Flo, and hang to dry.

One warning about T55. The negative base is very thin and tears easily. Also the emulsion of a freshly processed neg is very soft and can be damages easily. Hence be careful when clearing the negs by whatever means.

Regards,
Darwin

 

[spb854]

Thanks guys.

I was just wondering IF hypo clearing agent COULD be used. I will heed the adages of the wise sages on this site and do as told in the "good book".

Don't want the "gods" to get angry with me. I might be cut-off from any more wisdom.

I appreciate your help, guys!

Steve