Long term blix storage

Bumba

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Hi I've searched almover for an answer to this but couldn't get a sound conclusion.

Is a 2 part blix best stored as a working solution or as concentrate and keeping the two parts seperate. I've read that the two parts in a working solution attack each other causing it to go bad. I'm looking to store it for a number of months to a year at the max, if that is possible.

Also, is it possible to freeze the concentrate? I"ve read that it can separate out but does anyone have any experience of trying this!?

I'm specifically refering to Ra-4 blix btw

Thanks for any help
 

DonF

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I keep my working C4, including BLIX, in 1 liter soda bottles with the air squeezed out and in the fridge. It still works fine after 3 months, if that is any help.

I use the Unicolor powdered chem kit, so storing the working solution is my only option.

Best,

Don
 

thuggins

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At least for the E6 Tetenal kit, I can verify that one of the components of BLIX (the clear one, don't have a kit handy right now) will oxidize and produce a yellow precipitate. After the first kit I started decanting the concentrate into 100ml bottles and it definitely lasts longer without air. As for the mix, I get 4 to 6 weeks with no problems. Never had to keep it longer as I've typically gone thru 10 rolls by then.
 

Rudeofus

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The Tetenal instructions lists the following shelf life for their BLIX:
  • fresh working solution: 12 weeks
  • halfway used working solution 8 weeks
  • opened concentrate bottles: 24 weeks
Since their fixer part (BX2) degrades before it spits out visible Sulfur, you probably should not overstretch shelf life of opened concentrate bottles. In my experience C-41 and E-6 BX2 parts last no longer than one year, and that only if you meticulously apply inert gas after each bottle opening.
 
OP
OP

Bumba

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  • Thanks for the help everyone. I think I'll try and store it as a concentrate instead of working solution. I'll update you if I get a year out of it haha
 

halfaman

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Tetenal fixer part of the Blix has a special terrible shell life once opened, I would say 24 months is too much if not properly stores in airtight one-shot bottles. This also apply to B/W fixer from Tetenal. The rest of C-41 chemicals last very well.
 
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