It has been reported that a new non-silver filming system has been developed with the speed, resolution, and archival qualities of silver halide film. In addition to being less expensive than silver halide film, it is claimed to be free of the potential disadvantages of other film types. When it becomes generally available, reportedly later this year, this new technology is apt to have a major effect on the micro-form publishing industry.
Silver halide film has been the primary film type used in cameras for microfilming on account of its light sensitivity ('speed') and its relative permanence. In the past two decades, numerous silverless micro photographic processes have been developed, particularly for microfilm duplicates. Each in its own way has had certain advantages over silver halide film, but none has been without disadvantages of its own. Diazo and vesicular microfilm which together account for over 80 percent of all microfilm duplicates (primarily for business and government use) lack silver halide's archival life expectancy and have other shortcomings besides.
This new film, known as KC-Film, can be used for a number of applications: for microform duplication, as an X-ray film, as a printing plate, or for regular photography. KC-Film does not require special handling or protection and is unaffected by ambient light. It is also insensitive to moisture and heat.
Prior to fixing, KC-Film is erasable and reusable almost indefinitely. When archival quality is desired, the images are fixed onto the film, allegedly rendering them permanent.
The new technology was developed by Coulter Systems, Inc., a small Bedford, MA, firm which specializes in the design of high-technology printing equipment and supplies. The company is not yet marketing its newest product, but it is working with the National Archives on a library-type application. [Contact: Coulter Systems, Inc., 35 Wiggins Ave., Bedford, MA 01730].
