Question on D-76

Uncle Bill · Mar 14, 2007

I decided to give the venerable powder developer D-76 a shot this week so I mixed up a batch following the directions on the packet and decanted into storage bottles. Now how do I know I did it right? My stock solution is clear is that right?

Bill

Mick Fagan · Mar 14, 2007

Yes.

Mick.

bdial · Mar 14, 2007

Clear is good. It will start to take on a tan color though. The tan color won't be a problem as long as you stay within the storage guidelines, and it doesn't start looking like tea, or worse.

Uncle Bill · Mar 14, 2007

So, if it starts looking like finely aged Rodinal, she's pooched.

Ok you set my mind at ease, I have a short roll of Agfa APX 400 and I am going to give it a go. with that at stock dilution.

Bill

bdial · Mar 14, 2007

I like to use it at 1:1, but mostly out of habit.

Mick Fagan · Mar 15, 2007

Depending on whether or not you mixed the developer with tap water or not, you may wish to run the stock solution through a coffee filter prior to use.

I use tap water exclusively, have for the last 35 years and find that the best situation to ensure there are no super small solids, which may have emanated from the plumbing system, is to run the solution through a filter.

I also have found APX100 to my liking at 1+1 in D76.

Mick.

Uncle Bill · Mar 15, 2007

I am fortunate to have decent tap water, I use it with my "one shot" chemicals since last year with no issue.

ricksplace · Mar 15, 2007

I use d76 1:1 and pitch it after use. I have had d76 keep in excess of 6 months in full, stoppered bottles stored in a dark cupboard in a cool place. I have never had it turn brown. It doesn't keep at all if diluted 1:1, which is why I pitch it after use.

photobum · Mar 15, 2007

I use it at 1+1 all the time. It's my main developer. I find it keeps quite well after dilution. Kept in well stopped bottles, not open tanks. At 1+1 it is a one shot developer.

You say your giving it a try. You are better served by sticking with one film and one developer. I tend to stay with Tri-X and D-76 1+1. Any normal film and standard chemical will work well. Searching for silver bullets does not.

pnance · Mar 15, 2007

If you just want a quick test, put a drop on a piece of film leader.

Uncle Bill · Mar 15, 2007

Just a quick update, I processed the roll of APX 400 in D76 1+1 and I am really pleased at the results.

paulgray · Mar 15, 2007

"Just a quick update, I processed the roll of APX 400 in D76 1+1 and I am really pleased at the results."

We should get this out to the A.P. newswire ASAP.

"Photog discovers D-76 Works Great!!!"

I'm just teasing, but there's a reason it's been the standard for what, 80 years now?
I'm pleased to read that you personally like the results though.

Uncle Bill · Mar 15, 2007

I have been using concentrates (HC110, Rodinal, Ilfosil S) so this is new ground mixing up developer from a powder. I am pleased with the results.

Question on D-76

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