GelatineEmulsion

Gelatine emulsion is a photographic emulsion that uses gelatin as the binder for the light-sensitive silver halide crystals. It was widely used in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly in the production of photographic plates and films. The gelatin acts as a protective and adhesive layer, encapsulating the silver halide crystals and providing a stable medium for the photographic process.

The process of creating a gelatine emulsion involves dissolving gelatin in hot water, then adding the silver halide crystals to the solution. The mixture is then cooled and spread onto a glass plate or film base. The gelatin hardens as it cools, forming a transparent layer that holds the silver halide crystals in place.

Gelatine emulsions are known for their high sensitivity to light, which allows for the capture of fine details and subtle tones. However, they are also more prone to scratches and abrasions compared to later emulsions that use other binders. Despite this, gelatine emulsions played a significant role in the development of photography, contributing to the advancement of both wet plate collodion and dry plate processes.