Saponification Lab (Page 4 of 4) in pdf

Saponification Lab Page 4

Name:________________________________

Date:___________________ Block:_______

3. Measure out the total number of grams of NaOH and place into the same 400mL beaker.

(WARNING: Solid NaOH is highly basic. Use caution and wear gloves. Watch out for the residue it

leaves. )

4. Stir solution until all NaOH is dissolved. (WARNING: As solid NaOH dissolves it releases energy

which can heat up the solution.)

5. Measure out your ratio of oils and place into a separate 400mL beaker.

6. Begin heating the beaker with the oil solution in it. Keep it within the range of 37°C to 43°C

(100°F to 110°F).

7. Once the oil is within the targeted range, add the dissolved NaOH solution to the oil and begin

stirring! (If NaOH has become room temperature, carefully heat the solution back to 37°C.)

8. Take turns stirring and heating. Both must be done simultaneously for 30 minutes for

saponification to properly occur. (WARNING: Do not leave Bunsen burner under the stand while

heating. The oil will heat up really fast so remove from heat before it reaches 37°C.)

9. After 30 minutes, the soap should be thick. Let it cool to below 37°C before stirring in 3 to 5

drops of desired scented oils.

10. Pour into molds and wait 2 to 4 weeks to cure.

Post-Lab

11. After soap has cured, test it out by washing your hands. If you are worried that the soap did not

properly cure then you may wear gloves as you test it out.

Questions:

1. Did you use more saturated, unsaturated fat or equal amounts?

2. Did your soap properly cure? (How tough is it? How does it compare to a store bought bar of

soap?)

3. Did your soap lather up properly? (Was it too greasy? How does it compare to a store bought

bar of soap?)

4. If you could do this lab again, what new ratio would you try out to improve your bar of soap?

Would you use something other than Lard and Olive Oil? Explain.

Saponification Lab Page 4