TF-5 questions...

[M Carter]

Been using TF-5 - got some to retain more colors with Lith printing. I get no ammonia odor using my kitchen water filter, and I like the quick fixing and washing times.

So… when I use a Thiosulfate-based fixer, I test prints with residual hypo test. Is there a way to test for washing with TF-5? Or do you just wash the daylights out of it? (Label says "15 minutes - 25 minutes max for fiber papers").

I test for clearing several times in a print session - always clears paper in 15-20 seconds, I generally fix for 30-45 or so.

Why isn't this more of a standard fixer for paper than hypo-based solutions? Seems pretty awesome to me.

 

[Rudeofus]

The details of TF-5 are not published, but suffice it to say that there is more than Thiosulfate and Sulfite in TF-5. It's superior clearing speed does not come from its neutral pH alone, or any one could make a comparable fixer with regular rapid fixer and ammonia.

Unless PhotoEngineer (who took a major part in formulating it) gives us authoritative information to the contrary, I would test for complete washing with a residual hypo test. We have reason to believe that off all the ingredients in TF-5, Thiosulfate is the slowest to wash out.

 

[M Carter]

Thanks guys - good to know!