Protective gas?

[mob81]

I found one recently. However, I'm not sure if I got it right (Usage wise)!
Based on what I found, I need to spray a little bit on partially used bottle and it will create a layer between the chemical and the air (Each time I open the bottle). Did I get it right?

I face a problem with one developer and my fixer before.

Any input is highly appreciated.

 

[Rangefinderfreak]

You don`t need anything in the fix, there is nothing that oxidizes. For developer a layer of gas certainly helps. I use it always on an opened bottle of rodinal and HC 110 syrups, makes their life "eternal" . The gas is propane, it is heavier than air , so makes a layer on the developer. You can get propane in small quantities easiest by buying lighter gas refill bottle and attach a tubing to the tip.

 

[sevo]

There is no such thing as a layer between chemical and air, unless you pour oil on top - all gases will mix eventually, regardless of their molecular weight.

What protective gases do is fill the container with non-reactive gas.

In any case, you need nothing for the fixer - that has no oxidation problem (they'll actually blow air into the fix in large installations to extend its life). And in my experience, using good bottles and keeping them properly filled will protect your developer sufficiently, no extra gas needed.

 

[mob81]

I'm having problem locating proper bottle (Glass) here in My town. Online some places I contacted have minimum order quantity that are high for my use! (any link to online store would help 🙂 )

The Ilford rapid fixer caused me problem before (after diposing the old mixed fixer) I mixed new from an open bottle and it turned light BLACK after fixing one film!!! but the film turned out good. So I disposed it.

I can't for the time being locate proper glass bottle in different sizes.

with Rodinal and HC-110 never caused a problem. My concern is some Spur developers that I didn't use up to now as I know to turn bad quickly.

So any help is appreciated

 

[rbiemer]

How about these bottles:
http://www.sunburstbottle.com/amber-glass-boston-round-bottle/p/AB32/

Not sure where you are so shipping might be an issue?

Another thing to consider is: some friends of mine used glass marbles to raise the liquid level in the bottle which can minimize the amount of air inside the bottle. Slowly add marbles until the liquid rises to the top, then put the cap on.
Rob

 

[Rangefinderfreak]

I am using soft Shell Winshield washer "bags", You can squeeze them so that there is no air, or very little of it, Then a puff of lighter gas... No problem with mixed developer even for several months...

 

[mob81]

How about these bottles:
http://www.sunburstbottle.com/amber-glass-boston-round-bottle/p/AB32/

Not sure where you are so shipping might be an issue?

Another thing to consider is: some friends of mine used glass marbles to raise the liquid level in the bottle which can minimize the amount of air inside the bottle. Slowly add marbles until the liquid rises to the top, then put the cap on.
Rob

Those also have minimum order of $200 exclude shipping!

 

[Chris101]

They sell argon in bottles for use with wine. You would want to completely displace the air in the bottle for it to be effective, because as sevo says, the gas will diffuse into the air if left to do so.

However, if you are concerned with saving a partial bottle of already diluted developer, then the cost of the argon may exceed just mixing up a new batch each time you need it.

 

[rbiemer]

Those also have minimum order of $200 exclude shipping!

Sorry about that! I believed it when the site said there are "No minimums! No small order fees!"

Where are you located? That might help us to make better suggestions.
Good luck!
Rob

 

[Jan Pedersen]

Google Winesaver. I have used Argon which is what is in the winesaver cartridges for the last 3 to 4 years, first in color chemistry to make i last longer and later in most opened bottles of developer.
It cost a little extra but i think it is worth it and certainly make the color chems. last longer.