Negative stain

[Gary Holliday]

I've only been processing films for precisely 19 years, but hey!

I've processed my first rolls of 35mm Delta 3200 in DDX.
3-5 min water stop bath - lots of changes.
Ilford Rapid Fix 5 mins
Washed in tap water...Ilford wash method, with running water, dozens of changes for roughly 7 mins.
Final rinse in de-ionized water 1 -2 mins.
Squeegee with fingers 2-3 times.
Film dried in sealed drying tent at room temp (21 deg C)

I have a tiny oval stain which resembles a drying mark embedded in the emulsion which doesn't look as if it's going to clean.

What causes this and how do I prevent this from happening?

 

[Philippe Grunchec]

You are not the only one who noticed problems with current Ilford emulsions... I don't think the fault is yours!

 

[domaz]

I get these on Ilford films as well but they do wash out, I always assumed they were water spots. It is frustrating though that I have more problems getting B&W negatives to come out clean than E-6 film I soup (which gets washed in the same water!).

 

[Gary Holliday]

So are you suggesting that I soak the offending negative in a tray of water for 20 until the emulsion softens again and it should wash out?

 

[domaz]

That should work. I think I just ran mine over running water for a bit then final rinse, and hang to dry. Worked for me.