RE: RC paper longevity

From: Bob Kiss ^lt;bobkiss@caribsurf.com>
Date: 11/07/04-06:09:57 AM Z
Message-id: <NIBBJBPKILANKFOAGNHEIEHODBAA.bobkiss@caribsurf.com>

DEAR LIST,
    My experience with RC paper supports Roger's assertions that storage
conditions are paramount. I use RC for contact sheets and commercial B&W
jobs where the printed page of a magazine is the final form. I was too
casual about storing my RC prints and, here in Barbados where we have a
warm, humid environment, properly processed and washed RC prints show
degradation in just 3 or 4 years.
    I have just moved into my office/darkroom annexed to our new home and
every thing is now climate controlled. I will keep an eye on new RCs to see
if they last better.
                CHEERS!
                        BOB
-----Original Message-----
From: Jack Fulton [mailto:jefulton1@comcast.net]
Sent: Saturday, November 06, 2004 10:42 PM
To: alt-photo-process-l@sask.usask.ca
Subject: RC paper longevity

Joachim's assessment of RC paper photographic prints is not quite correct.
however, fiber based paper is better for longer term and physical beauty.
Properly exposed, processed and washed, the standard longevity is about 75
years. i write this after having received this past week the "Draft Photo
Policy" from the "National Register" and "National Historic Landmarks
Survey" as I do a little bit of photography in this context.
In this draft report it states: "Any type of black-and-white photographic
print expected to last seventy-five years or longer before showing signs of
fading, discoloration, or other forms of deterioration will be accepted.
This standard approximates the minimum expected longevity of black-and-white
photographs printed on resin-coated (RC) paper, which the National Register
and National Historic Landmarks Survey have accepted since the early
1980's".
They further state that digital images meeting the seventy-five yar standard
will be accepted. In addition, they say no chromogenic image on paper meets
the standard though implying further technology may change that.
Jack Fulton

On Nov 6, 2004, at 4:58 PM, joachim oppenheimer wrote:

Good luck. Variable contrast plasticized papers are an excellent learning
experience and the resultant prints may be useful for reproduction in
publication, but be warned that they are not suitable for long-term storage
or display. They deteriorate gradually and noticeably in a few brief years.
It is possible that there is something new in the field that I am not aware
of , but I doubt it. Use fiber based graded papers for best long-term
results. Joachim.
Received on Sun Nov 7 06:10:01 2004

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