Ilford ID-11

About the Developer

ID-11 is a powder developer based on a combination of metol and hydroquinone, which Ilford markets as a direct equivalent to Kodak D-76: the same chemistry, the same soft, even tone, and predictable grain. It comes in two packets (Part A and Part B) and in 1, 2.5, 5, 10, and 13.5-liter containers. In the lab, it is used as a stock solution without dilution and with a replenisher; for a home tank, the stock solution is diluted 1+1 or 1+3 and used as a one-shot solution.

Character

Essentially the same as D-76 in terms of philosophy and results. Versatile, gentle, and predictable. If you have D-76, this one is usually not necessary.

Best films

Ilford FP4+, HP5+, Delta 100/400, Pan F+, Kodak Tri-X, T-Max, Kentmere, Fomapan, ADOX CHS 100 II.

How to Prepare and Use

1. 1Dissolve the powder from Part A (the smaller packet) in about three-quarters of the volume of warm water (about 40°C), stirring as you go.
2. 2Gradually add the powder from Part B, continuing to stir until it is completely dissolved—a few granules may remain, which is normal.
3. 3Add cold water until the total volume reaches the amount specified on the package, and let the solution cool to 20°C.
4. 4For a laboratory tank, use the waste solution undiluted. For a home developing tank, dilute the waste solution 1+1 or 1+3 immediately before use—this is a single-use procedure.
5. 5Develop at 20°C (acceptable range: 20–24°C). Agitation: invert the tank several times during the first few seconds, then for 5–10 seconds every minute.
6. 6Drain the developer, process the film in the stop bath, fix it, and rinse it thoroughly.

Development times for different films

Development times — official Ilford data for lab processing at 20°C; 1+1 times — from independent tables for home processing based on the same formula. Adjust these times according to your film and agitation method.