Re: White precipitate

DKenn473@aol.com
Mon, 23 Sep 1996 01:03:46 -0400

In a message dated 96-09-22 17:54:04 EDT, you write:

<< I have a material Safety Data Sheet in hand for Kodak Hypo Clearing
Agent that list the percentage of EDTA at only 5% by weight. The main
component is sodium sulfite: 80% by weight.I wonder if we are not
"barking up the wrong tree" by concentrating on EDTA. Any thoughts from
the list?

Regards,
Jonathon Russell

Jonathon-
You hit it the nail on the head. EDTA is really not very effective on most
papers. It doesn't work at all on Martain's paper or on rising paper. It
also seems not to like potassium ox. developer. The key here is the sodium
sulfite! Even alone sodium sulfite is one fine clearing agent. As with all
aspects of platinum and palladium there are no absolutes. The best clearing
bath is dependent upon the paper and developer used. Another interesting
thing about sodium sulfite, it will clear some staining even after the print
has been dried. Try taking some of those "ruined" prints and soaking them is
sodium sulfite for 30 mins or so.
Best
David Michael Kennedy