Collodion Salt Solution for Ambrotype (Halide Solution) 500 ml | Alternative Photographic Supplies

The Collodion Salt Solution (halide solution) 500 ml is a professional alcoholic sensitizer designed for use in the noble wet plate collodion process. It offers a practical and cost-effective alternative to preparing large quantities of traditional pre-salted collodion, which is inherently unstable and short-lived.

Because collodion mixed with halides degrades rapidly, the use of a separate halide solution allows the photographer to prepare only the exact amount of working solution needed for each session. This significantly reduces chemical waste, improves process consistency, and lowers the overall cost of darkroom work.

Applications in Large Format & Alternative Photography

The alcoholic halide solution by Alternative Photographic Supplies is intended for classical historical photographic processes, including:

• Ambrotype (positive images on glass)
• Ferrotype / Tintype (images on metal plates)
• Wet plate glass negatives

This product is a key component of the collodion sensitization process. It introduces the necessary halides which, in reaction with silver nitrate, form light-sensitive silver halides on the surface of glass or metal plates.

Why Use a Separate Halide Solution for Collodion?

Compared to traditional pre-mixed salted collodion, a system based on a separate halide concentrate provides several advantages:

• Maximum chemical freshness – prepare fresh working collodion immediately before each session
• Reduced material waste – prevents degradation and darkening of unused sensitized collodion
• Full process control – stable and predictable behaviour improves exposure and development consistency
• Cost efficiency – only the amount needed for the session is prepared

How to Prepare Working Collodion – Mixing Ratio

Preparation is straightforward. The recommended ratio for this solution is:

2% Collodion : Halide Solution = 3 : 1

One 500 ml bottle yields approximately 2000 ml (2 litres) of working salted collodion, sufficient for producing hundreds of large format plates.

Technical Specifications

• Volume: 500 ml
• Type: alcoholic halide sensitizing solution for base collodion
• Use: wet plate collodion / ambrotype / ferrotype / tintype processes
• Mixing ratio: 2% collodion in 3:1 proportion
• Yield: approx. 2000 ml working solution

Important Notice (Professional Use Only)

Due to applicable regulations and strict chemical safety standards, this product is not available for consumer retail sale. It may be sold exclusively to businesses, cultural and educational institutions, and registered sole proprietors.

Prior to placing an order, please contact us via email for eligibility verification.