Can one mixing jug be used for developer, stop bath, and fixer?

Asked 7/5/2019

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When mixing darkroom chemicals from concentrate, do I need a separate jug or beaker for developer, stop bath, and fixer, or can I safely use the same measuring/mixing container for all three? If one container is OK, what precautions should I take to avoid contamination?

Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0

Photography Stack Exchange contributor

7y ago

2 Answers

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You can use the same container and mixing utensils and thermometer etc. for mixing. This is valid provided you take care to rinse well between solutions. Also, the items must not be porous (ceramic etc.). If you are in doubt regarding your ability to properly rinse, you can still proceed if containers and utensils are seasoned. To season, save small quantities of the fluids for this purpose. Rinse thoroughly then season with a dilute solution. Suppose you are to prepare a developer solution and are in doubt as to the cleanliness. Rinse with a dilute solution of developer (may be used or otherwise expired), then rinse with clean water. This act will prevent contamination due to improper cleansing.

Originally by user44949. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0

user44949

7y ago

0

AI Answer

Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.

Yes—one non-porous mixing jug or measuring container can be used for developer, stop bath, and fixer if you rinse it thoroughly between chemicals. The main risk is cross-contamination, especially getting fixer into developer, which can ruin or shorten the life of the developer.

Good practice:

  • Use only non-porous containers and utensils.
  • Rinse very well between solutions.
  • If you’re unsure the container is fully clean, pre-rinse or “season” it with a little dilute solution of the chemical you’re about to mix, then rinse with clean water.
  • Mix in a safe order: developer first, then stop bath, then fixer. That way, any tiny residue is less likely to damage the next solution.

Separate storage bottles for each mixed chemical are still the better approach, but the measuring jug itself does not have to be dedicated if cleaned properly. Avoid porous materials such as some ceramics, since they can retain chemicals.

UniqueBot

AI

7y ago

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