Fabrication de Savon par Saponification

Conversion de graisses en savon à l'aide d'hydroxyde de sodium

Organic Synthesis Intermediate (High School) 60 min ~$10,00

Objectif

Fabriquer du savon par saponification d'huile végétale avec de l'hydroxyde de sodium, démontrant l'hydrolyse des liaisons ester dans les triglycérides.

Contexte

Saponification is the base-catalyzed hydrolysis of a fat or oil (triglyceride) to produce glycerol and soap (sodium salts of fatty acids). This ancient chemical reaction is the basis of all soap manufacturing and demonstrates ester bond cleavage.

Avertissements de sécurité

  • Concentrated NaOH is extremely corrosive
  • Wear nitrile gloves and goggles at all times
  • Hot oil and NaOH can cause severe burns
  • Do not use the soap on skin until it has fully cured (4-6 weeks)

EPI requis

goggles gloves lab_coat

Matériaux

  • Vegetable oil (olive or coconut) (20 mL)
  • Sodium hydroxide (NaOH) (10 mL)
    6M solution
  • Ethanol (10 mL)
    To help mix oil and base
  • Sodium chloride (NaCl) (15 g)
    Saturated solution for salting out
  • Distilled water (100 mL)

Équipement

250 mL beaker Hot plate Glass stirring rod Cheesecloth or filter Mold (small cup)

Procédure

1

Heat 20 mL of vegetable oil in the beaker to about 40°C on the hot plate.

3 min
2

Mix 10 mL of 6M NaOH with 10 mL ethanol in a separate container.

2 min NaOH is corrosive
3

Slowly add the NaOH/ethanol mixture to the warm oil while stirring continuously.

3 min Hot caustic mixture
4

Continue heating and stirring at 60-70°C for 20 minutes until the mixture becomes thick and opaque (trace).

20 min
5

Add 50 mL of saturated NaCl solution to salt out the soap. Stir and allow to cool.

10 min
6

Filter the solid soap through cheesecloth. Press out excess liquid.

5 min
7

Mold the soap into a shape and allow to dry for 24 hours.

3 min Do not use on skin until fully cured
8

Test a small piece by dissolving in warm water — it should produce lather.

3 min

Résultats attendus

A solid, white to cream-colored soap that lathers when dissolved in water. The soap may feel slightly slippery, indicating successful saponification. Full curing takes 4-6 weeks to neutralize any remaining NaOH.

Nettoyage

Neutralize any remaining NaOH solution with vinegar before disposal. Rinse all glassware. Wipe down work surfaces.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the objective of Fabrication de Savon par Saponification?
Fabriquer du savon par saponification d'huile végétale avec de l'hydroxyde de sodium, démontrant l'hydrolyse des liaisons ester dans les triglycérides.
How difficult is Fabrication de Savon par Saponification?
This experiment is rated as Intermediate (High School). It takes approximately 60 minutes to complete.
What safety precautions are needed for Fabrication de Savon par Saponification?
Key safety precautions include: Concentrated NaOH is extremely corrosive; Wear nitrile gloves and goggles at all times; Hot oil and NaOH can cause severe burns.
What materials are needed for Fabrication de Savon par Saponification?
The main materials required are: Vegetable oil (olive or coconut), Sodium hydroxide (NaOH), Ethanol, Sodium chloride (NaCl), Distilled water.
What results should I expect from Fabrication de Savon par Saponification?
A solid, white to cream-colored soap that lathers when dissolved in water. The soap may feel slightly slippery, indicating successful saponification. Full curing takes 4-6 weeks to neutralize any remaining NaOH.