Chemistry Reference
In-Depth Information
fat
lye
glycerol
sodium
hydroxide
fatty acids
HEAT
fatty
acids
glycerol
sodium
hydrogen
and oxygen
soap
glycerin
Figure 3
The saponification process
Detergents are not affected by the presence of minerals in the water, so
unlike soaps, they work well in hard water and generally do not form soap
scum. Modern detergents are manufactured to contain many additives
such as enzymes to break down stains and bleach to whiten clothes.
Want to Know More?
See appendix for Our Findings.
Further Reading
Miller, Kathy. “Miller's Homemade Soap Pages,” 2007. Available online.
URL: http://www.millersoap.com/. Accessed July 17, 2010. Miller is a
veteran soap maker who provides troubleshooting suggestions for novices
on her Web site.
