gilpen123
Gil
I have a packet mixed of XTol for maybe 6+ months already. it's kept in a non-transparent container in our bedroom. Can I still use this? Thanks!
presspass
filmshooter
In short, it depends. I've stored Xtol full strength in full amber glass bottles for longer than this and had it work. The storage temperature ranges from 68 to 72 degrees F. If your container is full to the cap, well sealed, and glass, it will probably work, but I would run a test roll through it before I used it for something important.
venchka
Veteran
Xtol stored in a wine in a box bladder in my refrigerator. Worked fine 13 months after mixing.
Key points: Air free storage. Dark storage. Cold storage.
Key points: Air free storage. Dark storage. Cold storage.
gilpen123
Gil
It's full strength filled up to the brim. Yes I'll give it a try with 1 roll before I souped my mounting undeveloped rolls. This digital thing made me lazy.
totifoto
Well-known
I have used mine up to 12 months. You can see if its getting old. If it is getting a bit brownish I would not use it.
gilpen123
Gil
I'll transfer to smaller containers so I can keep it full to minimize oxidation. Will check color if it is brownish once I pour it out. I know my D76 easily gets brown.
Mackinaw
Think Different
I'm with the others who get 12 months. I use those accordion squeeze-type bottles and store in a closet which is a bit cooler than normal house temp.
Jim B.
Jim B.
gilpen123
Gil
I use the brown plastic containers from Jobo; 500 ml and 1 liter sizes. For 4 liter mixed developer full strength, I use a plastic gallon container,
goo0h
Well-known
I store mine in amber glass bottles, and spray a bit of "Endust" into the bottle before putting the cap on if the bottle isn't full. I store it in my bedroom, and we keep the house fairly cool (68F-75F). I have repeatedly used it for up to 12 months without any problems.
I just do a simple and quick "clip test" with a clip of the film from the leader. (Develop it for roughly the regular dev time for that film, then fix it. I fix it along side with a clip of the film that was not developed. After fixing, the developed clip should be completely black, and the non-developed clip should be clear. I think there are more accurate, precise ways to do a clip test, but this is quick and easy, and so far has been sufficient to verify that xtol has not died on me.)
I just do a simple and quick "clip test" with a clip of the film from the leader. (Develop it for roughly the regular dev time for that film, then fix it. I fix it along side with a clip of the film that was not developed. After fixing, the developed clip should be completely black, and the non-developed clip should be clear. I think there are more accurate, precise ways to do a clip test, but this is quick and easy, and so far has been sufficient to verify that xtol has not died on me.)
Freakscene
Obscure member
Kodak says Xtol stock lasts 6 months in full sealed bottles. Although they don't know everything about their products (for instance they told me they did not have any data about the effects on storage properties of cold storage), you can be sure that the things they do claim are very well tested. Why risk photos you put effort into getting?
Marty
Marty
semilog
curmudgeonly optimist
I've gotten at least a year in amber glass bottles cpaped with phenolic resin caps and sealed with paraffin film. Strored in my basement which ranges from 55-65° F.