What should I look for in a container for storing darkroom chemicals?
Asked 7/5/2017
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I’d like to store darkroom chemistry in sizes and shapes that aren’t always sold as dedicated photo-chemistry bottles, such as 250 ml containers. Are glass jars, mason jars, or Nalgene/HDPE bottles suitable? What container properties matter most for storing developer and other darkroom chemicals safely and helping them last longer?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
9y ago
2 Answers
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The various chemical solutions of the photo process can be safely stored in glass or high density polyethylene (HDPE). Nalgene is a trade name for this material by Fisher Scientific. It is important to consider the lids and caps; they should also be resistant to these chemicals. Keep in mind that polyethylene bottles other than Nalgene are also acceptable. Brown or green bottles are commonly used because the shelf life of stored chemicals is prolonged if they are protected from exposure to light. Please note that photo chemicals also succumb when oxidized. Dissolved oxygen in the waters of the chemicals is the offender. Best if the bottle is plastic and squeezed so the air space at the top of the bottle is excluded.
Originally by user44949. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user44949
9y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
For darkroom chemicals, the main concerns are chemical resistance, light protection, and minimizing oxidation.
Good choices mentioned are glass and HDPE plastic. Nalgene bottles are typically HDPE, and similar HDPE bottles are generally suitable as well. Glass jars can also work well, including mason jars, as long as the lid material is also resistant to the chemistry.
Amber/brown bottles are preferred because light can shorten the life of some photo chemicals. Clear glass can still be used if you store it in a dark place, such as a cabinet or box. Brief exposure to light while handling is usually not a problem.
Oxidation is another major issue, so try to reduce the air space above the liquid. Squeezable plastic bottles are useful because you can squeeze out excess air. Some photographers also use an inert gas spray to displace oxygen before sealing the bottle.
So yes: glass, amber glass, and HDPE/Nalgene-style bottles are all reasonable options. Prioritize a tight, chemically resistant cap, low air space, and dark storage.
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