ECN-2 remjet prebath

Description

An alkaline solution that softens the black anti-halation layer of cine negative so the carbon washes off with water. The first step of ECN-2, and the commonest reason a roll is ruined when it is skipped.

Why it cannot be skipped

Remjet is held on mechanically and does not dissolve in developer. Left in place, the carbon carries into every subsequent solution, settles on the emulsion in blotches and streaks the frames. Washing it off a finished negative afterwards is practically impossible.

What it looks like in practice

The prebath, then rinsing until the run-off is completely clear — usually several changes of water, sometimes with gentle wiping. It is the longest and dirtiest step; after it, everything proceeds as with ordinary colour film.

Questions and answers

Can soda and water remove remjet?

They can, and people often do it that way. The proper prebath is quicker and more even, and it does not depend on guessing the concentration right.