X-TOL, Microphen, or Acufine for long shelf life pushing developers?

Pink Rose

A
Pink Rose

  • 2
  • 0
  • 25
Double Cross

A
Double Cross

  • 2
  • 0
  • 42
Statue

D
Statue

  • 2
  • 0
  • 40
Orotone - Valena

H
Orotone - Valena

  • 8
  • 3
  • 84
Orotone - Calving Glacier

H
Orotone - Calving Glacier

  • 1
  • 1
  • 83

Recent Classifieds

Forum statistics

Threads
200,175
Messages
2,803,733
Members
100,164
Latest member
louisbyrd
Recent bookmarks
1

runswithsizzers

Subscriber
Joined
Jan 19, 2019
Messages
1,866
Location
SW Missouri, USA
Format
Multi Format
see ADOX website
Their English website page for XT-3 does say, "with improved storage capacities compared to earlier ascorbic-acid developer recipes." And, "Better keeping properties" compared to "similar working recipes like Xtol, Excel or LegacyPro Eco."

However, when we move from the general product description to specific recommendations, Adox says,
"Once mixed XT-3 should be filled in dark glass bottles filled to the top or topped up with protective gas (alternatively throw in clean glass marbles to taise the level of liquid). Prepared like this the stock solution should keep at least 6 weeks and up to 6 months depending on storage conditions and depletion of the solution."

The most recent data sheet I can find for Kodak XTOL is from Alaris, Publication J-109 dated Feb 2018. And that data sheet gives the shelf life of stock XTOL "in full, tightly closed containers" as "6 months."

So really, both manufacturers are claiming the same shelf life for the mixed stock solution -- six months -- right?

Actually, the exact wording used suggests Adox XT-3 is good "up to 6 months" (a maximum of 6 months), and Kodak just says "6 months" suggesting a minimum of 6 months?
 
Last edited:

runswithsizzers

Subscriber
Joined
Jan 19, 2019
Messages
1,866
Location
SW Missouri, USA
Format
Multi Format
It's funny, when I go to the Fotoimpex page product page for Adox XT-3 and click on this link for "PDF datasheet" it opens the Kodak Alaris Data Sheet J-109 for XTOL. In some places ADOX is saying XT-3 is "better" than XTOL, but in other places, they seem to be saying, "There is no practical difference"?

Screenshot 2025-10-17 at 2.39.30 PM.png
 

mshchem

Subscriber
Joined
Nov 26, 2007
Messages
15,239
Location
Iowa City, Iowa USA
Format
Medium Format
Sorry then I had misunderstood you, I thought that by electronic photography you meant hybrid :wink: nah no &€ital cameras for me: no light, no pictures:wink:

The no light no pictures is a sound plan! I'm so fond of film. I've been known to go for a stop even two, but as others have said all that's really changed is contrast.

I'm a XTOL fan, have been since it debuted. Keeps for a long time in full bottles. It's all about proper laboratory practices. Pure water, full bottles, properly maintained replenished solutions. 🥰 😊
 

Sirius Glass

Subscriber
Joined
Jan 18, 2007
Messages
50,560
Location
Southern California
Format
Multi Format
Store the developer in StopLossBagsTM using their funnel for filling he bags. www.StopLossBags.com. I have stored XTOL and replenished XTOL for years with problems. Always test the developer with a a strip of film.
 
Photrio.com contains affiliate links to products. We may receive a commission for purchases made through these links.
To read our full affiliate disclosure statement please click Here.

PHOTRIO PARTNERS EQUALLY FUNDING OUR COMMUNITY:



Ilford ADOX Freestyle Photographic Stearman Press Weldon Color Lab Blue Moon Camera & Machine
Top Bottom