DIY/Homemade Parodinal
Also known as: Paracetamol Rodinal, Acetaminophen Developer
DIY Rodinal clone using paracetamol (acetaminophen) tablets. Recipe: dissolve paracetamol in sodium hydroxide solution, add sodium sulfite. Active ingredient 4-aminophenol formed from paracetamol hydrolysis. Use same dilutions and times as Rodinal. Caution: preparation involves caustic lye and heat.
Temperature
20°C
18–24°C
Dilutions
3
Form
Liquid
Characteristics
Similar to Rodinal — sharp, dramatic results
Dilutions
Standard dilution. Higher contrast.
Finer grain, longer times.
Stand development. Maximum compensation.
Shelf Life
Concentrate
6 months to 1 year if stored properly
Working Solution
Use immediately
One-shot use only.
Often Used For
Limitations & Warnings
- Synthesis requires careful handling of lye (sodium hydroxide)
- Strong ammonia smell during preparation
- Heating required — do in well-ventilated area
- Not as consistent as commercial Rodinal
Descriptions combine manufacturer specifications with community experience. Subjective assessments reflect common sentiment among photographers and may not match your results.