D-8 High-Contrast Developer

About this developer

D-8 developer is used when maximum image contrast is required—typically in specialized technical applications, such as when reproducing printed materials and documents. Processing takes just 2 minutes at a working temperature of 20°C, and extreme care is essential here: leaving the film in the solution for too long can damage it. Up to 5 rolls of film can be processed in 1 liter of freshly prepared solution.

Character

A high-contrast alkaline hydroquinone developer. It produces an extremely sharp, high-contrast result with no midtones—this is a technical rather than an artistic application: for example, reproducing technical drawings and printed materials.

How to Prepare and Use

1. 1Dissolve caustic soda (25 g) in 200–250 mL of distilled water at room temperature in a separate small container, stirring constantly—otherwise it will clump together into a hard-to-dissolve lump.
2. 2In a 1-liter container, dissolve the contents of the “large package” in 300–350 mL of distilled water at 45–50°C: Trilon B, sodium sulfite, and potassium bromide, thoroughly crushing and dissolving any lumps.
3. 3In a separate container, dissolve the hydroquinone (the second packet) in a separate container containing 250–300 ml of water at 45–50°C, after first adding 50–70 ml of the solution from the previous step—stir thoroughly until all crystals are completely dissolved.
4. 4Immediately combine the two solutions and let them cool to 20°C.
5. 5Slowly, while stirring continuously, add the caustic soda solution, then add distilled water until the level reaches the 1-liter mark.
6. 6Let the solution settle for 2–3 hours, then filter it through cotton wool to remove the insoluble impurities of menthol and hydroquinone.
7. 7Develop the film for 2 minutes at 20°C—keep a close eye on the time; overdeveloping will ruin the negative.
8. 8Warning: This solution contains a caustic alkali—wear gloves and safety goggles; alkalis are more dangerous to the eyes than acids.