New Kodak B&W reversal films & process

[tgrain]

This was posted on my movie processing webpage (http://www.geocities.com/gselinsky):

IMPORTANT NOTICE for those developing KODAK BLACK AND WHITE REVERSAL FILMS (all formats)

As of October 1st, 2003 Eastman Kodak has introduced two new black and white reversal films that are to replace the older Plus-X 7276 and Tri-X 7278 films. They are to be called Plus-X 7265 and Tri-X 7266. Kodak reformulated these films to accomodate a new black and white reversal process that uses a new environmentally safe bleach and a higher energy developer. The new R-10 bleach does not use the metallic compounds that the older R-9 used, therefore making it more environmentally friendly and less costly to dispose of. The new developer/bleach combination allows Plus-X film to be exposed at 100 ASA.

In addition, the new Plus-X features increased sensitivity (100 ASA in daylight) at what Kodak terms a slight grain penalty, while the new Tri-X features finer grain for its 200 ASA (daylight) speed and lower contrast than its older brother, 7278.

Kodak claims full cross compatibility - the older films can be developed using the new chemical formulas, and the new films can be developed using the old classic formulas. However, it is important to note that both the new and old Plus-X films are to be exposed at 50 ASA (daylight) when being developed in the old chemistry, and 100 ASA when developed in the new chemistry. There is no change with the Tri-X films, as far as I am aware from Kodak's information.

Most laboratories intend to switch to the new process on October 1st, 2003. If you have Plus-X film that has been exposed at 50 ASA, and have not processed it yet - either get it to a lab that still uses the old process, or develop it yourself using the Kodak specifications below or any of the other classic formulae on the net.

I have not tested these new films or process combinations, nor do I currently have the new formulae (the Kodak D-94a developer and the R-10 bleach) - but I will post more information as it comes in. The processing information I have on this webpage does not yet reflect the new process. Check the Kodak webpage http://www.kodak.com (cinematography section) and the Kodak FAQ...

http://www.kodak.com/US/en/motion/16...d=0.2.20&lc=en

...on these two new films for more detailed information.

[Nigel]

I am getting excited to see the nrw Tri-X. I hope that it still maintains some of its classic "Graininess". The contrast was a bit over the top...

Good Luck

[BolexPlusx]

Hey!

Has anybody

1) Bought the new B&W films yet

And/Or

2) Seen the results of the new processes?

Thanks!