History of Soap and Detergent

Evidence of Early Soap-Making

• Soap-making practices date back to at least 2800 B.C. as evidenced by Babylonian clay tablets that describe mixtures similar to soap.

Origin of the Name "Soap"

• According to Ancient Roman legend, soap is named after Mount Sapo, where animal sacrifices took place, and rain mixed with fats and ashes created a soapy substance.

Early Recommendations for Soap Use

• Galen, a prominent physician in the second century, promoted soap for both medicinal and cleansing purposes.

Establishment of Soap Making in Europe

• By the 13th century, soap making had become a well-established craft throughout Europe.

Availability of Manufactured Bar Soaps

• Manufactured bar soaps became available in Europe and the U.S. in the early 19th century, significantly boosting production and accessibility.

Raw Materials in Soap Production

• The primary raw materials for soap production include fats or oils and alkali, typically sodium hydroxide.

Ammonia Process Development

• The ammonia process for soap technology was invented by the German chemist Otto Rohm in the mid-1800s, facilitating the production of synthetic detergents.

Environmental Impact Comparison

• Soaps are generally considered more environmentally friendly than detergents, as they are biodegradable, while many detergents contain synthetic ingredients that can harm ecosystems.

Chemical Reaction in Soap Production

• The production of soap involves the saponification reaction, where fats or oils react with an alkali to form glycerol and fatty acids.

Creation of Synthetic Detergent

• Germany developed the first synthetic detergent in 1916 to address shortages of traditional soap materials during World War I, marking a significant innovation in cleaning products.