Soap
Soap is a chemical compound used for cleaning. It is a salt of a fatty acid produced by mixing fats or oils with a base. This process, called saponification, cleaves esters into alcohols and salts (the soap). Soaps main use is in its ability to act as an emulsifier between oils and water. Soap molecules have one lipophilic (fat-attracting) end and one hydrophilic (water-attracting) side, allowing dirt and oils to be captured by tiny bubbles called micelles and subsequently washed away. Soaps ability to remove toxins and pathogens from skin or surfaces have made it a vital tools in preventing diesase.
Materials needed
- An oil, commonly animal fat or a vegetable oil.
- a base, commonly lye (sodium hydroxide and/or potassium hydroxide)
- water
Crafting instructions
Note: Due to the corrosive nature of lye, this should only be done in a well-ventilated area with proper personal protection equipment.
Exact measurements vary by recipe and oil used.
- Pour the lye into water and stir. This process is exothermic. Do not pour the water into the lye.
- Melt the oils on low heat.
- When both solutions are about 100-120°F (about 40-50°C), mix the two together
- Optional: Cook the soap on low heat for 1-1.5 hours. This reduces setting time
- Optional: Add fragrances or colorants to preference
- Place the soap in a mold. Remove and cut after 24 hours
- Let sit for 1-2 weeks if cooked, 6-7 weeks if not. While the soap is usable during this period, it is not completely saponified. To test if soap is saponified, attempt to lather.
Uses
Soap removes dirt from surfaces, skin, clothing dishware, silverware, and more, greatly reducing the chance of contracting an illness. soap also reduces body odor.