Extracting Sodium Hydroxide from Soap

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SUMMARY

Extracting sodium hydroxide (NaOH) from liquid soap is feasible, primarily yielding a mixture of NaOH and potassium hydroxide (KOH). Differentiating between these bases is challenging due to their chemical similarities. Spectroscopy is the recommended analytical method for distinguishing between NaOH and KOH. Direct testing of NaOH in dissolved soap is also a viable approach if KOH is absent.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic chemistry principles, particularly acid-base reactions.
  • Familiarity with spectroscopy techniques for chemical analysis.
  • Knowledge of sodium hydroxide and potassium hydroxide properties.
  • Experience with laboratory safety protocols when handling caustic substances.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research spectroscopy methods for differentiating between NaOH and KOH.
  • Learn about the chemical properties and reactions of sodium hydroxide.
  • Explore techniques for testing NaOH concentration in solutions.
  • Investigate safety measures for handling and extracting caustic chemicals in a lab setting.
USEFUL FOR

Chemists, laboratory technicians, and anyone involved in chemical analysis or soap manufacturing will benefit from this discussion.

g_midford
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is it possible to extract sodium hydroxide from liquid soap? i need to test the sodium hydroxide. if it is possible, how would i do it?
 
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A solution of bases extracted from soap will probably end up primarily as a mixture of NaOH and KOH. As Borek mentioned, it's not really possible to tell the difference between different bases, especially in this case since potassium and sodium in solution are so chemically similar to each other. The only way I can think of differentiating between the two analytically is through spectroscopy.
 
qalomel, there is no koh in this soap
 
If there's no KOH and assuming that there aren't any other bases aside from NaOH in the soap, can't you just test the NaOH directly in dissolved soap without extracting it?
 

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