Agfa Scientia...???

[HuubL]

Hi,
I got a couple of boxes of Agfa Scientia 35mm film (2x 28m, each for roughly 20 36 exp rolls). As the name suggests, it is used for electron microscopic images. I don't know anything about speed, only that it's supposed to be ultra fine grain and to be developed in Kodak D19 or somesuch, and that it's dated 11/1991). I'm curious to try it out for regular daylight use in my RF and SLR cameras. Is that possible at all or could I better just throw it away? Anybody has any clue about speed?? A website with more info perhaps??
TIA,
Huub

 

[Al Kaplan]

D19 is an extremely high contrast developer. My guess would be a film speed of about ISO 2 (that's TWO) and for starters try using Dektol just like for B&W prints. You could also try dilute D-76 or Rodinol. In any case you'l be doing some trial and error to get a useable negative. I'd sure give it a try before throwing it away!

 

[HuubL]

Thanks Al,
I'm certainly going to try it. Shoot a roll at a series of iso's (2, 4, 8, 16, 32, 64). Would Rodinal 1:100 stand development for 30-60 min be a good idea? You suggested paper developers. Would that be in a regular dilution for print work?

Edit: I just checked the film: it's not perforated. The orange plastic backing is pretty thick, making the film really stiff. I doubt if I can wind it onto a film spool. If I could get a stretch spooled would it be possible to transport it through the camera only by the pull of the film winder? Just try it I guess.

 

[Al Kaplan]

If it's not perforated try Dektol at 1:2 dilution under a standard (OC) safelight and see if it fogs. You could then use the film to contact print your negs and get creative with printing from positives. The Rodinol stand development just might be the ticket once you find out the film's speed. As for trying to pull it through the camera with the take-up spool? If it works at all the frame spacing wil be crazy!