The DARKROOM COOKBOOK, Third Edition

Pyrogallol and Pyrocatechin 59
in ABC Pyro is more susceptible to aerial oxidation than when pyro is combined with metol in
formulas such as WD2H� or PMK.
The second problem is that the sodium sulfi te in Solution B slowly changes to sodium
sulfate when stored. The result is decreased protection from aerial and auto-oxidation leading
to undesirable image stains.
There are three things that can be done to avoid aerial oxidation and other forms of
stains associated with ABC Pyro.
1. Develop only one sheet of fi lm at a time or use a sheet fi lm developing tray (see Resources:
Photographers’ Formulary). Use the intermittent agitation method I describe in Chapter 4:
Agitation and do not lift the negative from the developer until it is time to move it to a water
rinse.
2. Use at least 500.0 ml per 80 2 inches of fi lm with a minimum of 1.0 liter in a tray.
3. Mix the developer fresh as a working solution just before using. This is the way I recommend
using ABC Pyro and give the working dilutions in the Formula section.
By following these precautions you will avoid many, if not all, of the problems associated with
ABC Pyro.
Kodak D-1, ABC Pyro
Here is the classic Kodak D-1 formula as it is traditionally published.
Solution A
Water between 65F/18C and 70F/21C, 750.0 ml
Sodium bisulfi te, 9.8 g
Pyrogallic acid (pyro), 60.0 g
Potassium bromide, 1.1 g
Water to make 1.0 liter
Solution B
Water between 65F/18C and 70F/21C, 1.0 liter
Sodium sulfi te, 105.0 g
Solution C
Water between 65F/18C and 70F/21C, 1.0 liter
Sodium carbonate, monohydrate, 90.0 g
The standard ABC formula calls for a dilution of 1:1:1:7 for tray development. I recommend
using 1:1:1:11, which is the dilution usually given for tank development. Develop between 6
to 10 minutes at 68F/20C.
The standard dilution for tank development is given as 1:1:1:11. I recommend 1:1:1:14.
Develop between 8 and 12 minutes at 68F/20C.
Tray Development Using Stock Solutions of ABC Prepare everything in advance, combining the water and
Solutions B and C in a tray. Then measure out Solution A and leave it where it can be found in
the dark. Solution A will not begin to oxidize until it is mixed with B and C.