Processing Ready Loads; Static

[jeroldharter]

I am in the midst of processing Kodak Tmax 100 Readiloads for the first time. I think I figured out how to disassemble them without too much problem. I notice that when I pull off the cardboard sleeve, a brief green static light occurs right at the end when the cardboard sleeve passed over the plastic piece. I did not notice any fogging with the first batch but I haven't printed them. I try to go slowly, gently, etc. but it always happens.

Should I worry about this? Am I doing it wrong? Thanks.

 

[Photo Engineer]

Just about all glues will release static electricity when pulled away from the object that they are stuck to.

IIRC there is a small amount of cement or glue at the area you describe. I have seen the blue-green static take place, and at most have had just a small line where it takes place on the margin of the film.

It varies a lot and depends on humidity.

BTW, take a roll of scotch tape into your darkroom and peel some off. You will see this discharge take place.

PE

 

[cdholden]

I process ACROS and Velvia Quickloads weekly. Are you standing on carpet or a rug when you are pulling them through the sleeve? Are you located in a cold climate where static electricity may build up in the atmosphere? If so are you wearing shoes (rubber soled) and possibly stand on a rubber mat. I ask because I have never noticed any static light and I am standing on a tile floor in Florida.

The relative humidity in Florida keeps most instances of static electricity under wraps. It's more prevalent in less tropical climates.
Chris

 

[jeroldharter]

I live in Wisconsin which can be cold and dry but today it was in the 40's and damp. The relative humidity in my darkroom was 65 - 70%. I was standing on vinyl flooring.

PhotoEngineer: on just one of my negatives I noticed a small dark line on one of the corners of the processed negatives. That was the only evidence of mischief that I could find.

Thanks for the feedback.

 

[fwp]

I am in the midst of processing Kodak Tmax 100 Readiloads for the first time. I think I figured out how to disassemble them without too much problem. I notice that when I pull off the cardboard sleeve, a brief green static light occurs right at the end when the cardboard sleeve passed over the plastic piece. I did not notice any fogging with the first batch but I haven't printed them. I try to go slowly, gently, etc. but it always happens.

Should I worry about this? Am I doing it wrong? Thanks.

I've had the same thing happen to me. Since then before I pull the film I exhale into the sleeve to increase the humidity in the sleeve and help reduce static. I then pull the film out of the sleeve very slowly. I still get a flash every now and then but it's a lot smaller and has never fogged the film.