Ilford Perceptol Black & White Film Developer 1L

Ilford Perceptol Film Developer

ILFORD Perceptol is a powder developer designed for black and white film processing. It is formulated to produce exceptionally fine grain, sometimes at the cost of a slight loss in film speed sensitivity, making it ideal for applications requiring maximum detail and texture in the image.

Compatibility and Performance

Perceptol works best with low-speed films such as Delta 100, PAN F, and FP4 Plus, but it also reduces grain noticeably when used with higher-speed films like Delta 400, HP5 Plus, and Delta 3200 compared to standard developers like ID-11.

Preparation Instructions

One package of Perceptol powder is intended to prepare 1 liter of working developer solution. To prepare the "base" developer:

• Dissolve the contents of packet A (small packet) in approximately 750 ml of warm water (around 40°C), which is 3/4 of the total volume.
• Stir until most of the powder is dissolved.
• Gradually add the powder from packet B (large packet), stirring continuously until fully dissolved. Some undissolved grains may remain, which is normal.
• Add cold water to reach the full 1-liter volume and mix thoroughly.
• Allow the solution to cool to 20°C before use.

The prepared stock solution can be stored in a sealed container and diluted further 1:1 or 1:3 with water for single-use applications. Tap water can be used for dilution but should be allowed to stand for a few minutes before use.

Usage Guidelines

• For optimal results, use fresh developer for each new film.
• To economize, up to 4 films can be developed in the same 1-liter solution without dilution.
• Increase development time by 10% for each subsequent film: first film at time t, second at t + 10%, third at t + 20%.
• Development of films with ISO above 400 or push processing is not recommended when reusing developer.
• After each development, pour the used developer back into the main container and mix.
• Dispose of the developer 24 hours after first use regardless of the number of films processed.

Storage and Shelf Life

• Unopened powder can be stored indefinitely at 4–20°C.
• Once opened, prepare the solution immediately.
• Undiluted working solution stored in a full, airtight container lasts up to 6 months.
• In a half-full sealed container, the solution lasts up to 1 month.
• Diluted solutions (1:1 or 1:3) should be used within 24 hours.

Specifications

• Type: Powder developer for black and white film
• Volume: 1 liter of working solution per package
• Recommended films: Medium and slow speed films (Delta 100, FP4 Plus, PAN F Plus), also suitable for higher speed films with finer grain results
• Developer dilution options: Stock solution, 1:1, or 1:3 for single use