TF-2 alkaline fixer and shelf life

couldabin · Feb 1, 2018

Hello, I plan to try the TF-2 fixer as set out in Anchell's Darkroom Cookbook. I use Pyrocat-HD and want to see how this fix affects staining. The cookbook notes that reducing or eliminating the sodium sulfite will further enhance staining. How would that affect the fixer's shelf life? Is the role of sodium sulfite to act as a preservative?

Thanks.

Rudeofus · Feb 1, 2018

The role of Sodium Sulfite is to eat Oxygen so that the Thiosulfate doesn't have to. Once it's gone the fixer is toast.

juan · Feb 1, 2018

I use TF2 to fix my Pyrocat developed negatives and get plenty of stain. Use it per the formula.

Photo Engineer · Feb 1, 2018

michael_r said:
The Darkroom Cookbook is quite weak on things like this. Reducing or eliminating the amount of sulfite in the fixer should have no effect on image stain. It simply reduces the lifespan of the fixer.

Sorry, but this is not correct. Sulfite reacts with excess developing agent to prevent brown stain and it adds Sulfur to the mix to prevent bronzing of the image.

PE

John Wiegerink · Feb 2, 2018

I'm a little curious as to the shelf life of TF2 myself. I use only TF2 fixer and have never encountered a problem with the fixer myself. JohnW

couldabin · Feb 2, 2018

Thanks for your input, everyone. It has been very helpful.

TF-2 alkaline fixer and shelf life

couldabin

Rudeofus

juan

Photo Engineer

John Wiegerink

couldabin

Privacy & Transparency

Privacy & Transparency