Small scale industrial application of rubber seed oil in soap manufacture

Abstract

The oil, which was extracted from the rubber seed using the mechanical pressing method, was of high acid value, that is, the free fatty acid content is high and the oil is not edible, with an average saponification value. Its pH was slightly basic which makes it suitable for use in soap manufacture. It was, therefore, used as a substitute for palm kernel oil in the production of soaps (bar soap and detergent soap). Tests for the foam capacity and stability of the soaps exhibited good visual foam stabilities and capacities. These make it suitable for washing and cleaning.

Ife Journal of Science Vol. 8 (2) 2006: pp 207-210