Here's a breakdown of what this means:
* Graphic Arts Film: This film is specifically designed for use in printing processes, like offset lithography, where high-contrast images are needed for making printing plates.
* High-Contrast Reproduction: C-42 produces images with a wide tonal range, making it ideal for reproducing line art, text, and other images where sharp detail is crucial.
* Blue-Violet Spectral Region: This film is sensitive to blue and violet light, allowing it to be used with traditional blue-sensitive contact printing frames.
Key features of Agfa C-42:
* High resolution
* Fine grain
* Excellent sharpness
* High D-max (maximum density)
Why it's discontinued:
Agfa C-42 is no longer manufactured. This is likely due to the decline of traditional printing processes and the rise of digital imaging techniques.
Alternatives:
While Agfa C-42 is no longer available, there are still other high-contrast films available from manufacturers like Ilford and Kodak. These alternatives are often more modern and offer improved performance.
It's important to note that finding C-42 film today is very difficult. You may be able to find it in limited quantities at specialized stores or online marketplaces, but it is likely to be expired and may not produce optimal results.
If you're looking for a high-contrast film for graphic arts applications, it's recommended to explore modern alternatives offered by current manufacturers.