Mold on 50-year-old Undeveloped Film?

MattKing

Moderator
Moderator
Joined
Apr 24, 2005
Messages
53,103
Location
Delta, BC Canada
Format
Medium Format
This and other posts seem to include an assumption that the static is being induced at the time you handle the film prior to development.
The static could have been induced any time during the film's life.
My source is quite familiar with quality control issues in older film materials
 
OP
OP

Steve Cohen

Member
Joined
May 26, 2021
Messages
24
Location
LOS ANGELES
Format
Multi Format
Thanks, Matt. Needless to say, I have no idea when the damage was done. But you and others had indicated that it might be happening when the roll is unwound. ("The film would have been wound for so long that it's all core-set, curled up, and most likely somewhat blocked. When the roll is unwound, the film discharges at the point of separation which usually begins at the edges and runs inward.") And Don Heisz suggested I try unspooling a roll under water. With nothing to lose, I figured I'd try it. Mold or static, it doesn't really matter anymore since there is apparently nothing to be done.
 

AgX

Member
Joined
Apr 5, 2007
Messages
29,973
Location
Germany
Format
Multi Format
Concerning the density effect of static discharge, one also might consider solarisation.
 
Cookies are required to use this site. You must accept them to continue using the site. Learn more…