dental film processing - complete message

["Gregory, Kent (DHS)" <Kent.Gregory@dhs.sa.gov.au>]

Sorry, caught be the f-r-o-m bug.  Here is my message in full (hopefully).

> Dear Radsafers,
> One of my jobs involves checking the intra-oral dental film processing
> methods used in South Australian dental clinics.  The most common film
> processing technique in use here is Kodak's time-temperature method with
> GBX chemicals.  This method calls for 1:4 dilution of the developer with
> water. The developing time is then determined by the temperature of the
> solution.  The time-temp graph, at 68F (20C) calls for a developing time
> of 5 minutes.  This is a long time to wait for a film.
> 
> Does anyone know of a variation to Kodak's GBX time-temperature method
> that will yield an equivalent quality film in less time?  Pls email me
> direct at kent.gregory@dhs.sa.gov.au with your suggestions.
> 
> Years ago it appears that Kodak used to sell "Kodak Liquid xray developer
> Type 2".  This was also recommended to be diluted at 1:4. The developing
> time was faster than GBX (3.5 minutes at 68F).  Furthermore, tests
> conducted by the Branch determined that diluting "Type 2" at 1:2 and
> developing for 1 minute gave adequate results over a range of temps
> (65-75F).  This method proved very popular with dental staff, as the
> increased use of developer solution was more than compensated by the
> reduced developing time.
> 
> Thank you
> 
>      Kent Gregory
>      Radiation Protection Branch
>      South Australian Health Commission
>      Level 2, 61 Hindmarsh Square
>      Adelaide  SA  5000
>      Australia
>  kent.gregory@dhs.sa.gov.au
> 
> 
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