I've read somewhere that one should not use rapid fixers if one wants archival quality photos (fibre based paper) Is that true, and can anyone recommend a good sodium fixer for that purpose?

I have always used rapid fixers before.

And, if I want to use selenium toner, can I use a fixer with a harderner, or must I use one without?

Thanks in advance!

-- Patric in Sweden (jenspatric@mail.bip.net), September 30, 1999

Answers

I use straight sodium thiosulfate (hypo) no hardeners, retouching is much eaiser and toning is no problem, 1 min. in fixer, 1 min. in sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) 1% solution (nutralizes hypo)and then soak in water x 10 min. x 3. Pat

-- pat j. krentz (krentz@cci-29palms.com), October 01, 1999.

Patric,

The current recommendation from Ilford is a two bath fix, in rapid fixer mixed double strength (film strength). 30 seconds in each fixing bath, then wash with a wash aid.

The idea is that by using strong rapid fixer, you can get complete fixing in less time, so that the fixer doesn't penetrate the fiber base. This allows a fairly short wash, but meeting archival standards.

I think if you read otherwise, it was from someone who is sticking with the old methods. Times change.

-- Terry Carraway (TCarraway@compuserve.com), October 01, 1999.

an added note... i would not reduce the wash time... even though you are in the fix for a shorter time, the medium is still submerged in other chemicals before the fix. and chances are you it is dry before it goes in the developer. even if it is presoaked before the developer, it still has pleanty of time to diffuse with other chemicals. i personally like to mix my own fixer.. 240g hypo, 30g sodium sulfite (to make 1 liter.) remember.. it is ,IMHO, much better to wash for the full time, then have yellow over time.

-- Sean (ZBeeblebrox42@yahoo.com), October 01, 1999.

Terry, I have only been using this method for about 15 years, I like the old way, it works for me! Pat

-- pat j. krentz (krentz@cci-29palms.com), October 03, 1999.