screen printing > Newbie

Emulsion Expiration

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Pangea:
Will old emulsion cause premature screen breakdowns? I have some Cryocoat that's about 13 months old and think it may be the culprit.

Frog:
Well, though your particular storage conditions can affect it, Photopolymer emulsions are the most tolerant of time. Specs are usually conservative and have some wiggle room.
Yours has a shelf life described thusly(wrong word and all, LOL): Shelf live: Unopened, 24 months. Opened, 6-8 months.

Pangea:
This gallon went through a move and a summer with little to no A/C so I think to be safe it's time to toss it.

Frog:
Photopolymers are pretty tolerant of temps up to 100.
In my experience, emulsion that has gone bad starts displaying negative characteristics way before the middle of a run.
I've had it curdle and coat poorly, (as well as stink)
I've seen it not develop as usual, either hard to rinse out or entire areas fall apart.

screenprintdirect:
Generally most emulsions will have the same life span but it varies on which one you're using
Ready to use emulsion 10-12 month life span
Diazo mixed into the emulsion for waterbased printing 2-3 weeks

Tips to make your emulsion last longer
store in 59-77F or for best results keep it in your fridge and reseal it

After 13 months I would toss it and get a new batch
Also I would write the day you open your emulsion on the container just to keep easier track

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