Proposal Title
Kool, Kool, Kool-Aid Soap!
Session Type
Workshop
Room
MSA 1220
Start Date
11-7-2013 1:30 PM
Keywords
soap, Kool-Aid
Primary Threads
Teaching and Learning Science
Abstract
In this hands-on workshop, we will explore a novel method of making an attractively coloured and scented soap. We will use the traditional lye and lard method of making the soap, but rather than salting out the soap, we will make a complexed version of the crude soap using sodium carbonate. We will then convert the crude soap to a translucent, coloured and scented glycerine soap using a mixture of ethanol, water and glycerine. The colour and scent will be provided by adding appropriate amounts of Kool-AidTM thus giving participants the opportunity to individualize the scent and colour of their soap. Participants will be able to leave with their own soap cake that can be actually be used as well as the recipe. Ideas for the presentation of the soap will be offered as well. The complexation of the crude soap and the use of Kool-AidTM as a colouring and scenting agent make this technique novel. At the University level, this experiment highlights acid/base chemistry, the concept of saponification, simple concepts in organic chemistry, stoichiometry and physical principles of the materials involved. This particular demonstration is ideal as it can be effected by teachers at any level, even in schools, to demonstrate the ancient techniques of soap-making combined with the safe and careful use of chemical materials that are readily available. It serves to show students the practical nature of chemistry and its relevance to our daily lives. It is a great way to illustrate to students how we can do so much more with so little!
NOTE: Chemistry labs have a safety dress code that specifies long pants, socks and shoes that completely cover the feet; no exposed midriffs. Safety glasses will be provided.
MSA is a bit hard to find. Meet in the PAB Atrium at 13:20 for a volunteer escort.
Kool, Kool, Kool-Aid Soap!
MSA 1220
In this hands-on workshop, we will explore a novel method of making an attractively coloured and scented soap. We will use the traditional lye and lard method of making the soap, but rather than salting out the soap, we will make a complexed version of the crude soap using sodium carbonate. We will then convert the crude soap to a translucent, coloured and scented glycerine soap using a mixture of ethanol, water and glycerine. The colour and scent will be provided by adding appropriate amounts of Kool-AidTM thus giving participants the opportunity to individualize the scent and colour of their soap. Participants will be able to leave with their own soap cake that can be actually be used as well as the recipe. Ideas for the presentation of the soap will be offered as well. The complexation of the crude soap and the use of Kool-AidTM as a colouring and scenting agent make this technique novel. At the University level, this experiment highlights acid/base chemistry, the concept of saponification, simple concepts in organic chemistry, stoichiometry and physical principles of the materials involved. This particular demonstration is ideal as it can be effected by teachers at any level, even in schools, to demonstrate the ancient techniques of soap-making combined with the safe and careful use of chemical materials that are readily available. It serves to show students the practical nature of chemistry and its relevance to our daily lives. It is a great way to illustrate to students how we can do so much more with so little!
NOTE: Chemistry labs have a safety dress code that specifies long pants, socks and shoes that completely cover the feet; no exposed midriffs. Safety glasses will be provided.
MSA is a bit hard to find. Meet in the PAB Atrium at 13:20 for a volunteer escort.