How to mix Fomadon excel (xtol) ?

[Noll]

Hi folks, this is my first time using this developer. I mixed it according to instructions - small bag first then large.

A couple days later now I'm still left with a bunch of undissolved sand-grain size particles. My bottle looks like a sno-globe when i shake it. Should I filter these out or use it as-is? The water I used was filtered rainwater - so no hardness issues. The developer was, however, about 6-12 months expired but cold-stored.

Any suggestions? Thanks in advance....

 

[Freakscene]

Keep stirring, and make sure the solution is near the upper end of the recommended temperature range for mixing. But don't go over it.

Let us know how you go.

Marty

 

[Noll]

Thanks, I take it this is typical for this developer? They sure don't make it easy. It's in a warm water bath for now and will try another 10-15 minutes of mixing tonight. If that doesn't do it, I'm just going to roll with it as-is tomorrow. Unless someone has a reason not to.

 

[Freakscene]

It's not exactly easy, but it ought to all dissolve, unless what won't dissolve is divalent cations (mostly calcium and magnesium) precipitated by the chelating agents in the developer.

Marty