Re: PYROCAT-MC GLYCOL: Alternative Process Film Development

[Sandy King <sanking@clemson.edu>]

Mark,

Results from the two formulas are similar, and you can basically use 
the same times with -MC as with -HD. The most fundamental difference 
is that you will get  greater apparent sharpness with -MC in rotary 
(continuous) processing than with -HD, and if developing for the high 
contrast needed for alternative printing there will be slightly less 
B+F stain with -MC. The color of the stain is also slightly different 
with -MC, but so far as I can tell this not change results very much.

In essence, if you want to do rotary processing I recommend -MC. For 
minimal and stand development I recommend -HD. For other intermittent 
types of agitation I recommend both.

Best,

Sandy





At 10:44 AM -0800 11/29/06, Mark Booth wrote:
> I noticed that Sandy King is offering his new formula(s) of both 
> Pyrocat-MC Glycol and Pyrocat-HD Glycol through Photographers' 
> Formulary.  I am interested in their staining properties contrasted 
> to pyro for alternative printing.
>
> What are the primary differences between the two formulas?  (Speed; 
> Compensation/Expansion; Sharpness; Etc)  When would one formula have 
> preference over the other developer variant or are each very similar?
>
> I find the organic solvent approach very intriguing and practical 
> for consideration.  I primarily work with HP5 Plus; Bergger BPF 200; 
> Acros 100; films.  Most frequently use the Farber's shared, 
> Pyro-triethanolamine formula.
>
> Thank you,
> Mark