Name of the Students: Nia Janine C.

Flores
Danña Gladyn Tampos
Allan Angelo Soliva
Francis Pacaldo
Course Name & Section: BSCE 1E-2
Course Instructor: Mr. Christopher Welbourne B. Ferrer

EXPERIMENT 1: COLD SOAP MAKING

Introduction

In the chemical process of creating soap, fats or oils react with a strong alkali, like

sodium hydroxide, to produce glycerin and soap. This reaction is known as the saponification

reaction. According to Ugwu (2018), saponification is the process by which caustic soda and

fatty acid react chemically to generate soap. Fatty acid salt is produced in this process. There

are two types of caustic soda: sodium hydroxide, which produces hard soap, and potassium

hydroxide, which produces soft and liquid soap. Using distilled water, palm oil, olive oil, and

sodium hydroxide, along with essential oils for scent, the goal of this experiment was to

create solid soap bars. In order to achieve a high-quality final product and successful

saponification, the process concentrated on careful temperature control and regular stirring.

Creating soap with desired physical qualities, such as consistent texture, scent dispersion, and

sufficient hardness, was the aim.

Among the fundamental chemical principles used in the soap-making experiment is

saponification, which is the process by which triglycerides (fats and oils) combine with

sodium hydroxide, a potent base, to yield soap and glycerol. The oil and aqueous lye solution
are able to mix correctly because the soap functions as an emulsifier, exhibiting

emulsification. The transformation of the oils into a cleaning agent depends on this hydrolysis

event. The dissolution of sodium hydroxide in water in the experiment also illustrates an

exothermic reaction, which releases heat that needs to be carefully managed. Though the

finished product stays somewhat alkaline, pH variations also take place during the process,

beginning extremely basic and progressively reducing as saponification is finished.

Since ancient Mesopotamia, soap consisting of fat and ash has been used to clean

wool and clothing. Only after the first century was the value of soap for personal hygiene

acknowledged. Since then, with scientific support, the personal cleanser market has grown

quickly. Since ancient times, daily cleaning has been considered the standard. Originally

performed for the sole goal of maintaining hygiene, washing is now encouraged as a way to

unwind and enhance the health of one's skin (Sakkaravarthi, 2022). According to the study of

Noibjonova (2024), in the plastic and rubber industries, soap is used for personal hygiene,

leather, cosmetics, and the polymerization of linen. There are numerous advantages to soap

that go beyond simple hygiene. Because of its surfactant qualities, soap may effectively clean

by emulsifying grease and removing grime. Soup eliminates bacteria and viruses from the

body, which helps stop the spread of illnesses and infections. For better skin care, different

formulations offer moisturizing or exfoliating qualities to suit different skin types.

Objective

This experiment aimed to produce soap by reacting oil with an effective base, a

process known as saponification, and study the characteristics of the final product, including

how well it cleanses. More specifically, this experiment sought to achieve the following:

 Know how saponification works chemically.

 Examine how the oils utilized affect the qualities of soap.

 Data from experiments.

 Recognize how important safety precautions are when handling caustic materials.

Procedures

To perform the experiment on Soap Making, the following procedures were done:

 Put on safety goggles and gloves.

 Carefully add sodium hydroxide to distilled water, stirring until dissolved. Allow the solution

to cool.

 In a separate container, measure the required amount of palm oil and olive oil using a scale.

 Mix the oils and prepare for heating.

 On a hot plate, heat the oils to approximately 50°C.

 Once both mixtures are at a similar temperature, combine them, stirring continuously.

 Continue stirring until the mixture reaches trace, resembling a thin custard consistency.

 Add essential oil and mix thoroughly.

 Pour the soap mixture into molds and cover with a lid or plastic wrap.

 Allow the soap to cure for at least 48 to 72 hours.

 Unmold the soap and cut it into desired shapes.

 Allow the soap to cure further for 4-6 weeks for optimal hard.
 Figure 1a. Pouring of Mixtures Figure 1b. Stirring of Mixtures

The materials/equipment/chemicals used in the experiment are the following: (1) 113

g of Palm oil (2) 189 g of Pure Olive oil (3) 40 g of Sodium hydroxide (caustic soda) (4) 113 g of

Distilled water (5) 9 g essential oil (6) Thermometer (7) Protective goggles (8) Gloves (9) Stainless

steel pot (10) Beakers (11) Stirring utensil (12) Soap mold – for approximately 300- 400g of soap.

Results and Calculations

The solid soap bars produced by the soap-making method had a consistent, smooth

texture. While first examined, the soap bars were consistently soft and held their shape in the

molds. Given that an essential oil is used, the smell was mild and dispersed evenly. There

were no signs of separation or contaminants, and the soap’s color was consistent.

The soap bar cured over a period of five days, solidifying enough to be unmolded and

cut into consistent forms. The soap achieved the required hardness following this curing time,

signifying that saponification was successful.

A considerable amount of heat was released during an exothermic reaction that took

place when sodium hydroxide was dissolved in distilled water. Before being combined with

the oils, the solution had to cool after becoming too hot to handle. The oils and sodium

hydroxide solution gradually thickened after being mixed together, changing from a smooth

liquid to a custard-like substance, which signified that the saponification reaction was

starting. Furthermore, as the combination underwent a chemical metamorphosis into soap, its

hue changed from translucent to opaque. The scent was evenly dispersed throughout the

mixture and there was no separation of oil layers after the addition of essential oils at trace,

indicating successful emulsification. Over the course of the five-day curing process, the bars

maintained their shape and progressively solidified. The well-formed, useable soap bars were

the result of this inspection, which verified that saponification was complete and that extra

moisture was evaporating.

The need of precise measurements and temperature control in the soap-making

process is emphasized by Cavitch (1994). For a saponification reaction to proceed smoothly

and completely, several factors are necessary. An uneven reaction could produce soap with

uneven texture or unreacted constituents if the oils and sodium hydroxide solution are not

combined at the proper and comparable temperatures. Cavitch also emphasizes the

importance of exact amounts of lye and oils because any imbalance might change the quality

of the finished product and the effectiveness of the chemical reaction.

Moreover, Dunn (2010) offers a more thorough examination of the chemistry

underlying saponification, explaining how the dissolution of sodium hydroxide in water is an

exothermic reaction that generates a substantial amount of heat. For the reaction to be safe

and successful, this heat needs to be carefully controlled. In order to evenly mix the oil and
lye solutions, Dunn also discusses the significance of emulsification, which calls for careful

and regular stirring. The production of a stable and superior bar of soap depends on the soap

mixture remaining homogenous and preventing separation through proper emulsification. In

order to get excellent soap-making results, both writers emphasize the importance of certain

chemical principles and controllable factors.

Discussion Guide Questions:

Question: How does the choice of oils influence the properties of the resulting soap?

Answer: The oils used in the production of soap have a significant effect on the soap's

qualities. Fundamental factors include: oil blend ratios, oils type and percentage, soap making

process, fatty acid profiles, pH level, additives and its aging process. Various oils like olive,

coconut, palm, and castor bring distinct benefits. Soap issues often stem from imbalanced oil

ratios, inadequate mixing, or insufficient curing. For superior soap quality, explore strategic

oil blending, process refinements, targeted additives, precise pH control, and optimized

curing techniques. In concise explanation, optimize soap quality by balancing oil ratios,

mixing, curing, and refining processes.

Question: Discuss the chemical reaction involved in saponification and its significance in

soap making.

Answer: The saponification process uses alkali to convert oils into soap and glycerin in two

stages: hydrolysis and saponification. Saponification impacts soaps when we talk about:

cleansing properties, texture and hardness, lather quality and moisturizing properties. There

are also factors that influence saponification, these are oil/fat type and quality, alkali

concentration and type, temperature, mixing and curing conditions, additives, pH level and

aging process. Its common issues are, incorrect oil/alkali ratios, insufficient mixing or
temperature control, contamination, incompatible additives and pH imbalance. In producing a

soap, understand saponification to create high quality soap with desired properties.

Question: What safety measures are crucial when working with sodium hydroxide, and why?

Answer: When working with sodium hydroxide (NaOH), prioritize safety to avoid risks like

skin burns, eye damage, and respiratory issues. Follow this precautions: wear protective gear,

handle with care, and use in well-ventilated areas. Measure accurately, mix cautiously, and

neutralize spills. Store safely and follow established recipes. Common issues arise from

incorrect NaOH concentration, inadequate mixing, or contamination. Troubleshoot by

analyzing NaOH levels, checking mixing conditions, and verifying pH levels. To prevent this

problem, the person reponsible for this experiment should follow recipes and guidelines, use

protective gear and handling NaOH carefully, ensure adequate ventilation and storage and

regularly update soap making techniques.

Question: How does the curing process contribute to the final quality of the soap?

Answer: The curing process plays a crucial role in determining the final quality of soap,

influencing its hardness, moisture content, lather, texture, fragrance, color, and pH level.

Factors like temperature, humidity, air circulation, soap size, oil composition, water content,

additives, and storage conditions can impact curing. Common issues include soft soap,

inconsistent texture, discoloration, unpleasant odors, and reduced lather quality. To

troubleshoot, adjust curing time and conditions, monitor temperature and humidity, improve

air circulation, and optimize soap size and composition. Proper storage and regular inspection

also ensure high-quality soap. By controlling the curing process, soap makers can: regulate

temperature and humidity, ensure adequate air circulation, monitor moisture content,

regularly inspect soap, and adjust curing time for optimal results.
Question: Reflect on potential modifications or additions to the soap-making process for

varied outcomes.

Answer: Modifying the soap making process can lead to varied outcomes. Consider changes

like adjusting oil blends, alkali concentrations, temperatures, and curing conditions. Add

exfoliants, colorants, essential oils, and moisturizing ingredients to enhance soap properties.

Botanicals, milk, oatmeal, salt, glycerin, and preservatives can also be added for unique

benefits. However, be aware of potential variables affecting results, such as oil quality,

measurements, temperatures, and additive interactions. Troubleshoot by analyzing oil blends,

checking alkali concentrations, and monitoring pH levels. Optimize your process by refining

oil blends, adjusting alkali concentrations, and selecting suitable additives. Regularly inspect

and test soap to achieve desired outcomes and create high-quality products.

Conclusion

The soap-making experiment demonstrated proper formulation and efficient

saponification, resulting in high quality soap bar. The soap’s capacity to maintain shape,, its

smooth texture, and its consistent scent dispersion all testify to the process’s complete

success. A balanced combination of moisturizing and cleansing qualities was offered by the

use of olive and palm oils, which improved the soap’s overall quality. Furthermore, the

addition of essential oil improved its sensual appeal.

Moreover, the cure duration was one of the key findings of the experiment. The soap

properly hardened in five days, which is a shorter time frame than the usual time needed for

curing. This implies that the fast curing may have been achieved by optimizing the

saponification process through the use of sodium hydroxide, olive oil, palm oil, and distilled

water. The experiment showed how important it is to maintain consistency by thoroughly

mixing the ingredients and carefully controlling the temperature. Overall, the finished
product had the appropriate chemical and physical characteristics, proving that the process

was successful.

Appendices

References.
Ugwu, C. P. (2018). Soap Making (Doctoral dissertation, GODFREY OKOYE UNIVERSITY,
ENUGU).
Sakkaravarthi, V. (2022). History of soap. Cosmoderma, 2.
Noibjonova, X. M. (2024). BIOLOGICAL ROLE OF SOAP. Экономика и социум, (3-2
(118)), 266-268.
Cavitch, S. M. (1994). The Soapmaker's Companion: A Comprehensive Guide with Recipes,
Techniques, and Know-How.
Dunn, K. (2010). Scientific Soapmaking: The Chemistry of the Cold Process.