Saponification Activity - Soap Making

A Soap-Making Activity emphasizing the principles of Green Chemistry was successfully organized by the Department of Chemistry, Rayburn College. The objective of the activity was to provide participants with practical knowledge of the Saponification process while promoting environmentally sustainable chemical practices.

The event commenced with a Welcome Address delivered by Miss Angela Ramtharmawi, who warmly greeted the participants and set the tone for the session. This was followed by a detailed demonstration and explanation on soap-making in a green manner, presented by Sir L. Chungkholen Kom. He elaborated on the scientific basis of saponification, the chemical process in which fats or oils react with a strong alkali, such as sodium hydroxide (NaOH), to produce soap and glycerol. The session emphasized safety, accuracy, and sustainability in chemical practices.

Following the demonstration, participants engaged in a group soap-making activity, where they applied the concepts learned during the session. The use of SoapCalc allowed for accurate monitoring of the molarity and concentration of lye, ensuring theoretical precision and safety. The exercise also highlighted the importance of recognizing that different oils have distinct saponification values.

The session concluded with a vote of thanks by Ms. Zenhoihmuan, Head of the Department of Chemistry, expressing appreciation to the resource person, participants, and organizers for their active involvement and cooperation.