Push Processing PyroCat Developer?

[John Z.]

I recently took some photographs with Efke 100 film of some rock art that I need to push process +2 stops, or N+2 development at least. I have had good success with PyroCat HD developer, but normally can only push this film about N+1.5.
My question is if anyone has experience pushing Efke film to N+2 or beyond? Is there a special additive you would suggest (?Amidol), or just increase the developer or alkali concentration? I have a suspicion that I tend to max out at N+1.5 because of developer exhaustion; my first test I think I will replace the developer with a new batch half way through the development process and see.
Just for the record, I use a JOBO processor, 11x14 film, and develop by inspection. Thanks for you help and suggestions.

 

[juan]

I haven't tested with a densitometer, but I think I get more expansion than that. It could be because I develop at 80F. You might try raising your temperature. Also, you might try searching for Pyrocat+, a souped up version developed by Sandy. I'm not sure if he posted it here, but I know he did at the Azo forum (michaelandpaula.com).
juan

 

[noseoil]

If you ca't get it with Efke 100, try the 25. This stuff will build more contrast than you can print. I haven't had any trouble using the 100 in any situation yet, but I'm using it with plenty of contrast in scenes outdoors here. tim

 

[sanking]

My question is if anyone has experience pushing Efke film to N+2 or beyond? Is there a special additive you would suggest (?Amidol), or just increase the developer or alkali concentration? I have a suspicion that I tend to max out at N+1.5 because of developer exhaustion; my first test I think I will replace the developer with a new batch half way through the development process and see.

John,

I have tested EFke PL100 in several different developers and N+1.5, assuming your processs needs a ES of about 1.2 for silver printing, is about the most you can get with the film. You can use stronger dilutions of Pyrocat-HD, or add ascorbic, to make the developer more energetic, or you can use other developer. However, stronger dilutions of Pyrocat or stronger developers just give shorter development times, but they do not increase approximate CI because the limitation of CI is in the film itself.

Interrestingly, if you are printing with alternative processes it is possible to get up to N+2 and even more because of UV stain density.

Sandy