Soap is created through a hydrolysis reaction. The alkali (typically sodium hydroxide for hard bars or potassium hydroxide for liquid soap) breaks the ester bonds of triglycerides (fats), releasing fatty acids that then bind with the alkali to form salt—which we call soap.
: Each molecule has a hydrophilic (water-loving) head and a hydrophobic (water-fearing/oil-loving) tail . Scientific Soapmaking
: The hydrophobic tails attach to grease and oil, while the hydrophilic heads stay in the water. This forms a micelle , surrounding the dirt and allowing it to be rinsed away. Advanced Concepts for Soapmakers Soap is created through a hydrolysis reaction
For those looking to move beyond basic recipes, these concepts from Scientific Soapmaking by Kevin M. Dunn are essential: : The hydrophobic tails attach to grease and
At its core, is the study of saponification —the chemical reaction between a fat (oil) and a strong alkali (lye) to produce soap and glycerin. While craft soapmaking often follows "recipes," a scientific approach focuses on stoichiometry, molecular structures, and analytical testing to create precise, high-quality bars. The Core Chemistry: Saponification
Scientific Soapmaking: The Chemistry of the Cold Process - Amazon.in