I recently pulled out some older Tri-X 4x5 negatives to reprint. I processed the m in college some years ago, between 1986 and 1988. Many of the negatives are sh owing a spotty metallic build-up in the highlight areas; it was not noticeable w hen I last printed them 7-8 years ago. There does not appear to be any correspo nding alteration within the shadow areas, and the mottling appears to be more pr evalent in negatives that were (sometimes intentionally) overexposed. The build up has bluish cast on the emulsion side of the affected negatives, and shows as spots or blotches, especially when these areas are burned in. There is no corr esponding build-up in T-Max negatives of the same vintage (perhaps due to the lo nger fixing times for T-max?). In those days, I did not mix my own chemistry, b ut was scrupulous about following recommended tank processing times. The negativ es have been stored for 15-odd years in Print File archival pages, in a 3-ring b inder. Some of the negatives have a bluish line about 3/4" from the bottom of t he negative, opposite the slit opening in the PrintFile pages. I was wondering about 4 possible methods to remove the existing buildup or pre vent any further damage: (1) Refix and rewash the negatives; (2) Experiment wit h Farmer's reducer (I have some duplicate negs that I would be willing to sacrif ice in experiments); (3) Selenium toner; and (4) treating all of my negatives wi th Sistan. I would appreciate any suggestions about how to proceed. Thanks, Chr is Avery.
Bookmarks