Developing solution problem, dark brown color, Fomatol... storage issue?

[peterpeterpeter]

Hi!

I'm using Fomatol LQN developing solution to print some of my B&W photographs. I am keeping the solution in these black bins with lids that I purchased from IKEA. They've been sitting in my bathroom for about 3 days or so since mixing and using the solution. When I first mixed and used the solution it was a yellowish color. I followed the instructions, diluting it 1 part to 7. Today I'd noticed the solution has turned a dark brownish-yellow color (not cloudy) and the developing time is much longer. Also, the photographs do not have a true black shade.

The paper is white and unexposed, so I do not believe it is a light leak problem in the dark room. The fixer seems fine as well. Another important thing to mention is that when I first mixed the solution, I noticed after about three photographs that I was unable to achieve a dark black color in the photographs.

I'm not sure if this is a problem with the temperature or what. Perhaps a storage problem? When I first began printing it took about a minute and a half to develop a photograph, today about seven minutes for the same photograph, and again the resulting image is poor quality. When I developed the photos for about a minute and half, the black and grey areas in the photos seem to be a brownish color.

The paper is Fomaspeed RC variable 311 and I'm using wooden salad tongs to grab the photos with, though I can't imagine that's the problem.

Anyone have any suggestions? Thanks in advance!

Peter

[TPF Sponsor]

[ann]

sounds like oxidation of the developer, how many prints did you make the first time? Perhaps the developer was old to begin with , which doesn't help.

[compur]

I am keeping the solution in these black bins with lids that I purchased from IKEA.

That is most likely the cause of the problem. Use containers made specifically for storing photo chemistry.

[ann]

I am keeping the solution in these black bins with lids that I purchased from IKEA.

That is most likely the cause of the problem. Use containers made specifically for storing photo chemistry.

this also crossed my mind, don't know why i didn't mention it as well.

[djacobox372]

My hc110 developer turns brown after opening, but it doesnt seem to have any affect on development.

[ann]

My hc110 developer turns brown after opening, but it doesnt seem to have any affect on development.

It will change color , but it holds up for years. Deepen shades of tan is more common.