saponiation

Saponiation is a term sometimes used to refer to saponification, the chemical reaction that converts fats and oils (triglycerides) into soap and glycerol using an alkali. In standard chemistry, the process is called saponification.

In chemistry, triglycerides react with a base (commonly sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide) in a hydrolysis reaction. The ester linkages are cleaved, yielding glycerol and fatty acid salts; these salts are the soap. The overall reaction can be written as triglyceride + 3 NaOH -> glycerol + 3 Na fatty acid salts. Using potassium hydroxide yields potassium soaps, which are often more soluble and produce softer or liquid soaps.

Production methods include hot process (heat accelerates saponification) and cold process (allowing reaction to proceed at ambient temperature). The choice affects texture, curing time, and quality. Saponification values measure the fatty acids’ content and are used to determine the base amount required.

Soap acts as a surfactant that lowers surface tension, helping to remove dirt. Glycerol is a valuable byproduct used in cosmetics and moisturizers. Waste streams from saponification must be managed to avoid excessive alkalinity and ecological harm.

While saponiation is not the preferred term in modern technical usage, saponification remains the standard concept in organic chemistry and industrial soap making.