Debenham Media Group is one of just
a few sites in the world that will transfer NITRATE FILM.

We realize and respect the importance of early films that captured our past, and have developed a safe environment to transfer the film. We are commited to saving our visual history whenever possible

IDENTIFYING NITRATE FILM:
It will be marked as "Nitrate" along the edge of the 35mm film, below the sprocket holes.
There is often an odor, like vinegar.

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW
ABOUT NITRATE FILM:
The following are general recommendations and do not cover all situations!
NEVER PROJECT NITRATE FILM!

It is highly flammable and could ignite with heat. Decomposing nitrate film can ignite spontaneously at temperatures as low as 120F.

NItrate film burns rapidly, is fueled by its own oxygen, and releases toxic fumes.

Not all nitrate film has deccomposed, some is actually in excellent condition; however precautions must always be taken.

Cellulose Nitrate was first used as a base for photographic roll film by George Eastman (KODAK) in 1889 and was used for photgraphic and professional 35mm motion picture film until the 1950s.
There are 6 stages of decomposition:

    1. Amber discoloration with fading of picture.
    2. Emulsion becomes adhesive and film sticks to itself.
    3. Film can become extremely brittle
    4. Film contains gas bubbles and gives off noxious odor (smells like vinegar)
    5. Film is wet and soft. Often welded to itself & frequently covered in a viscous froth.
    6. Film mass degenerates into a brownish acrid powder.

Film in the first two stages of decomposition can still be transfered, as well as
many parts of film in its third or fourth stage of decomposition.

Film in the fifth and sixth stages of decomp are useless and should be destroyed immediately by local fire safety officials or hazmat teams due to the dangers of spontaneous combustion and chemical attack on other films.
SHIPPING NITRATE FILM
Due to the potentially hazardous nature of nitrate film, you will need to contact hazardous materials department of Fedex or UPS for special shipping instructions and requirements. (These can change
from time to time). Generally shipping does not cost more than normal shipping, but there are limits
to the quantity of film per box as well as labeling and packing.

PACKING NITRATE FILM
Nitrate film should fit snugly in a film can and be firmly packed for shipping. Nobody wants it to be
jostling around . . .  Pack it as if it were fine crystal.

IMPORTANT THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT NITRATE FILM TRANSFER:
   1. Film preparation is critical and we charge $75 per hour.
   2. A thorough inspection must be performed before placing nitrate film into the telecine.
   3. Splices are usually bad and decomposed sections need to be amputated.
   4. Preparation of nitrate film in good condition may only require 15 mins and will be billed accordingly.
35mm Nitrate film circa 1930
35mm Nitrate film circa 1930
35mm Nitrate film circa 1930 with audio track visable on the left
Above: Random decomposition of 35mm Nitrate film.
STORAGE OF NITRATE FILM

Humidity, heat, and fluctuating conditions accelerate
the inevitable deterioration of nitrate film.

Nitrate should be kept cool at a constant 50F with a relative
humidity of 40-50%. Temperatures over 80F and relative
humidities exceeding 60% should be avoided.

The film gives off fumes which accelerate the decomposition process
and also affect safety film, so nitrate should be stored separately in its
own metal cupboard or in another building.

It is essential to have adequate ventilation to allow the
gasses to escape and avoid the risk of explosion.
35mm Nitrate Film Transfer Pricing

Transfer Rate:
$400.00 for up to 1,500 feet of 35mm
(approximately 16 minutes)

$0.25 per additional foot

($400.00 Minimum Order)

Preparation:
$75.00 per Hour - Prorated

(1/4 hour Minimum)