Re: Paper and platinum

Beakman (beakman@netcom.com)
Tue, 21 May 1996 06:27:15 -0700 (PDT)

>
> hello All
>
> Kerik Kouklis wrote that on the papers he was using it was better to give a
> double coating of platinum sensitiser to get the best print.
>
> I maintain that the best print can be obtained by using a single coat on the
> right paper.

I don't think it's quite that simple Terry. I think that what it really
comes down to is having a certain density of sensitizer on the paper.
I've found that something on the order of 0.75 drops of sensitizer per sq.
in. of coated area to be a good minimum target -- more than that won't do
any harm except to your wallet.

The Platine paper is not very absorbent -- it will not take this amount
of sensitizer in a single coat as some of the other papers will.
Therefore, it is necessary to doublecoat the paper to reach the necessary
density. I also find it necessary to allow this paper to dry naturally,
to allow the sensitizer to soak in a little.

I will, however, agree that the most grain free prints are made without
using any restrainer (contrast agents) in either the sensitizer or the
developer.

David Fokos