Fat and alkali are the two primary raw materials needed to manufacture soap.
Sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide is generally used as an alkali. The use of alkali depends on the intended application of the soap.
Raw animal fat was used in the past but these days, processed fat is used in the soap manufacturing process. Vegetable fats ( e.g, palm oil, olive oil, coconut oil) are also being used in soap manufacturing.
Additives are also used to enrich the color and texture of the soap.
