BB PYRO

The first time I saw this formula was in the instruction sheet for the old HRT BB series of plates when they were produced in Germany.  So back in the 20th century I dubbed it BB Pyro, for Birenheide and Blyth Pyro, but I might be the only one calling it this.  The original pamphlet did not give it a name.  The current producers of the BB series of plates, Colour Holographic, recommend the orignal PyroChrome Developer for the plates now.

BB PYRO from Holographic Recording Materials, circa 1997:

PART A
15 g Pyrogallol
5 g Metol
One litre water

PART B
30 g  Sodium Carbonate
7 g Sodium Hydroxide
One litre water

Mix equal parts together before use.

Development time:
5 minutes at 20C (68F) for BB series plates.           

Agitation:  Constant

Primary recommendation for developing the BB 520 and BB 640 materials.  Follow with a rehalogenating/diffusing bleach for no emulsion shrinkage, or 'Chrome bleach for change of replay wavelength in the reflection mode.

Shelf life:  Part A can last a few daysin a tightly stoppered bottle; Part B can last indefinitely.  The combined solutions can last about a day in a covered tray, but it's better to mix the two parts together immediately before processing and use it only once.

Sources:  Holographic Recording Technology brochure and Colour Holographics brochure.