A black-and-white image showing a (monochrome) photograph being developed.

Before the arrival of digital cameras photographs has to have the touch of a professional if not we cannot see photos we clicked.  The film need to be processed and later made into visible image.

Matte glass cork next to cilindrical tube

Various chemicals are used in this process. Processing of films and light sensitive paper in photography is still widely used.   Certain of these chemicals are considered as hazardous goods in transport regulations.

Some of the photographic chemicals are listed below

  • (4-(N-ethyl-N-2-methanesulfonylaminoethyl)-2-methylphenylenediaminesesquisulfate monohydrate
  • Potassium hydroxide
  • Potassium carbonate
  • N-ethyl-N-2-methanesulfonylaminoethyl)-2-methylphenylenediaminesesquisulfate monohydrate
  • Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid
  • Diethylene triamine pentaacetic acid
  • Nitrilotriacetic acid

Since these chemicals falls under Clas 8 ( corrosive substances ) acids and alkalis keeping both in same shipping container is prohibited by IMDG Code. However special provisions of segregation in IMDG Code allows with certain restrictions such as package size 30 L or 30 KG packing groups II & III acids and alkalis to be shipped together in same container provided the shipment meets the requirement specified in related segregation provisions.

If you are shipping out photographic chemicals by sea going containers or carrying it with you by air you need to check with the carrier for applicable regulatory compliance or restrictions.

By shashi kallada

25 years in Merchant Shipping, Last 13 years working on Packaged Dangerous Goods Sailor, Ex Manager Global Dangerous Goods Maersk Line * Freelance Photographer *Amateur Cyclist

Write your view

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.