"Mikrat" Film Developer
A high-contrast developer for special halftone technical films such as "Mikrat" and FT-20/30/40.
About this developer
This developer is intended for special halftone films used in technical photography—such as the domestic “FT-20,” “FT-30,” “FT-40,” “Mikrat,” and similar types. Developing these films requires a special high-contrast developer, and this formula is designed specifically for that purpose. Processing time is 2–3 minutes at a working temperature of 20°C. Up to 5 rolls of photographic film can be processed in 1 liter of freshly prepared solution.
Character
A high-contrast developer for special halftone technical films used in technical photography.
Best films
FT-20, FT-30, FT-40, “Mikrat,” and similar technical halftone films.
How to Prepare and Use
- 1In a 1-liter container, dissolve the contents of the “large package” in 500–600 mL of distilled water at 45–50°C: Trilon B, sodium sulfite, potassium bromide, and potassium carbonate (potash)—thoroughly crush any lumps until completely dissolved.
- 2In a separate container, dissolve the contents of the second packet (methol and hydroquinone) in 200–250 ml of water at 45–50°C, adding 50–70 ml of the solution from the first packet first—stir thoroughly until all crystals are completely dissolved.
- 3Pour both mixtures together right away and let them cool.
- 4When the temperature reaches 20°C, add distilled water until the level reaches the 1-liter mark.
- 5Let the freshly prepared solution stand for 2–3 hours, then filter it through cotton wool to remove the insoluble impurities of menthol and hydroquinone.
- 6Develop the film for 2–3 minutes at a working temperature of 20°C.
- 7Store the developer in a container filled as much as possible with the solution (with as little air inside as possible).
Pros
- Provides the desired high contrast on special halftone technical films
- Good capacity—up to 5 rolls per liter
- Can be stored for up to 2 months in the filled container
Cons
- It is useless for standard photographic film—it is designed only for technical emulsions
- A short cooking time (2–3 minutes) requires precise temperature and timer control
- Technical films (FT-20/30/40) are hard to come by these days
Recipe for 1 liter






Dissolve the alkaline activator (potash) and the other salts in the first batch at 45–50°C; add the developing agents (metol and hydroquinone) are dissolved in the second packet, separately and with a portion of the already prepared solution, to prevent oxidation.
Chemical structures: PubChem (public domain)