Stability of Processed Cellulose Ester Photographic Films

Abstract

The chemical stability of cellulose ester photographic film support is extremely important to archival keeping behavior. A 1981 study predicted that cellulose triacetate support films would have acceptable physical properties for at least 300 years under recommended storage conditions. This study on the total film, however, masked some of the degradation reactions resulting from the amphoteric nature of the gelatin emulsions. The effects of commonly used cellulose nitrate subbing material and triphenyl phosphate flame-retardant plasticizer on nonsensitized cellulose triacetate supports are now reported. These nonsensitized supports, after high-temperature incubations, follow a similar Arrhenius relationship, indicating that the presence of the sub and the plasticizer, at the concentrations commonly used with Kodak cellulose ester films, does not affect their archival keeping behavior. Recommendations for proper storage to prolong the useful life of these processed films are outlined.

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