ADDIS ABABA SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY UNIVERSITY

COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING

DEPARTMENT OF CHEMICAL ENGINEERING

Title: Experimental Investigation of Aloe Vera and Qasil Soap Formulation

and its Evaluation as a Cleanser.

Prepared by Id.No

Meron Seifu……………………………………………………..ETS0838/13

Merry Demissie…………………………………………………ETS0840/13

Nardos Kendalem……………………………………………….ETS0974/13

Samrawit Assefa………………………………………………...ETS1119/13

Wegene Fikre…………………………………………………...ETS1264/13

Advisor: Dr. Wondimu Mussie

Submission date: November 30, 2024

I.
Contents
List of tables............................................................................................................................................2
Executive summary.................................................................................................................................3
1. Introduction.....................................................................................................................................4
1.1 Problem Statement...................................................................................................................5
1.2 Objective.......................................................................................................................................5
1.2.1 General Objective.......................................................................................................................5
1.2.2 Specific Objectve.......................................................................................................................6
1.3 Scope of the study.........................................................................................................................6
1.4 Significance of the study...............................................................................................................6
2. Literature review..............................................................................................................................7
2.1. Background..................................................................................................................................7
2.2. Herbal soap advantages over synthetic soap................................................................................7
2.3. Raw materials of polyhedral soap................................................................................................8
2.4 Polyhedral soap formulation parameters and methods used so far (ingredients and conditions)
...........................................................................................................................................................12
3. Materials and methods...................................................................................................................15
3.1 Materials.................................................................................................................................15
3.2 Methodology...............................................................................................................................17
4. Timeline.........................................................................................................................................24
5. Financial Breakdown.....................................................................................................................24
Reference..............................................................................................................................................25

II.
List of tables
Table 1 Raw Materials for Body Soap Production......................................................................................15
Table 2 Required Equipment for Body Soap Production...........................................................................16
Table 3 Work plan and Time schedule.......................................................................................................24
Table 4 Financial breakdown.....................................................................................................................24

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Executive summary

This research, titled Experimental Investigation of Aloe Vera and Qasil Soap Formulation and its
Evaluation as a Cleanser, aims to develop a natural, poly-herbal soap combining Aloe Vera and Qasil
to address common skin concerns such as acne and dark spots. Both Aloe Vera and Qasil are known
for their anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and exfoliating properties, making them ideal for
skincare.The study seeks to create a natural alternative to synthetic commercial products. The study
will involve experimental formulation, combining Aloe Vera gel, Qasil powder, and soap base
ingredients under controlled conditions. Factors like pH, texture, and moisturizing properties will be
optimized, and the soap’s effectiveness will be evaluated through quality assessments and consumer
trials.This research promotes the use of herbal ingredients in skincare, offering an affordable and
sustainable alternative to commercial products. The expected outcome is a stable, effective soap that
combines the benefits of Aloe Vera and Qasil, providing consumers with a natural skincare option.
The project will be completed over seven months, and a detailed budget will be developed for
necessary materials and testing.In conclusion, the study has the potential to advance natural skincare
solutions and contribute to sustainable product development. It offers a promising, eco-friendly
alternative to synthetic products, with the support of stakeh
olders key to its success.

1. Introduction

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Soaps and other cleaning products can be liquid, solid, semisolid, or powdered used to remove
filth, including dust, bacteria, stains, and offensive odors, from the body or inanimate things,
such clothing, in order to maintain health and attractiveness. Among the disinfectants required
for daily hygiene practices are soaps and detergents. Chemical components included in most
commercial soaps on the market today contain antibacterial properties and may be able to treat
skin ailments.

Herbal soaps can be used for both skin conditioning and washing. One benefit of using herbal
cosmetics is that they are safe because they provide the body with nutrients and other healthy
minerals rather than having any negative effects. People's health, lifestyle choices, long-term
employment, and environment all have an impact on how beautiful and healthy their skin and
hair are, as well as how well they are maintained. When the skin is exposed to the body's heat
for extended periods of time throughout the summer, wrinkles, freckles, pigmes, and sunburns
develop [40].

Poly herbal soap is a kind of herbal soap prepared with more than one herb and other natural
ingredients. The word "poly" means "many"; therefore, poly herbal soaps are a blend of various
herbs, each with unique skin benefits, into a more comprehensive multi-functional product.

Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis miller) – It is a succulent plant known for its wide range of
medicinal and cosmetic properties. It has a history of use in many cultures for medicinal
purposes, mainly for skin treatment and moisturizing of the skin. The high number of bioactive
compounds in the plant such as vitamins, enzymes, amino acids, and polysaccharides contribute
to its efficacy.

Qasil powder is from the leaves of the Sideroxylon mascatense – or "Qasil tree." Qasil has
beneficial properties for skin health and, in the past, women in Yemen used qasil for cosmetics
and cleaning their skin.

Lye (Sodium Hydroxide) is essential for the saponification process, where oils are turned into
soap.

Oils and olive , coconut or palm oil .

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1.1Problem Statement

Hazardous materials such polymers, aluminum, barium, mercury, and bisphenol are
commonly found in commercial soap. These compounds have harmful side effects on the
body and are absorbed through the skin as well as evaporated [41].

A lot of herbs used in herbal soaps have specific therapeutic properties that benefit the skin.
For example: Neem has antibacterial and antifungal properties, thus may be helpful with acne
and skin infections. Aloe Vera is soothing and moisturizing for dry or irritated skin.

polyherbal soaps are most likely not to have synthetic chemicals, so they would not irritate
sensitive skin. This is because most commercial soaps contain ingredients such as sulfates or
parabens that strip the skin of its natural oils, thereby leading to dry skin or allergic reactions.
Herbal soaps, on the other hand, tend to be gentler and more nourishing in nature; hence, they
are appropriate for people suffering from conditions like eczema, psoriasis, or sensitive skin.

Herbal soaps are biodegradable and ecological. Many of the ingredients used are plant-based;
some herbal soap brands emphasize that they use sustainable farming and the ethical sourcing
of herbs. This makes herbal soap more eco-friendly than normal soaps, which may include
harmful, non-biodegradable chemicals in their formulation.

Switch to herbal soap for that simple yet effective change in skin and the environment is
essential. This project then devotes on usage of natural fragrances ingredients of Qasil and
soothing and moisturizing property of Aloe vera in soaps to help nourish, hydrate, and heal
the skin by avoiding the use of chemicals that irritate the skin or wreak havoc on skin health
in the long run.

1.2 Objective

1.2.1 General Objective

To produce polyherbal soap by using natural ingredients of Qasil and Aloe vera and evaluate
the product.

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 1.2.2 Specific Objectve

 Extraction of aloe vera and qasil

 Formulation of herbal soap
 Evaluation of herbal soap

1.3 Scope of the study

This study focuses on the experimental investigation of Quasil and aloe vera soap extraction,
formulation and its evaluation. First we will have to choose the right species of the aloe vera
and qasil. We will be investigating on how we can extract ingredient we need from the aloe
vera and qasil. How we can formulate the soap as a one product.choose our variables and how
many experiments we will conduct. How we can check or evalute it as a product .

1.4 Significance of the study

The manufacturing of aloe vera and qasil soap is an example of the application of chemical
engineering in the processing of natural products, optimization of reactions, sustainable
manufacturing, and product innovation. This fills the gap between traditional practices and
modern engineering by contributing toward eco-friendly skincare solutions.

Aloe vera and qasil soap production is a powerful avenue to economic empowerment, public
health improvement, environmental sustainability, and industrial growth within developing
countries. Making use of local resources and traditional knowledge, such countries can create
an environmentally sustainable and competitive industry that supports their development
goals while improving the quality of life for their populations.

2. Literature review

6
Soaps and other cleaning products can be liquid, solid, semisolid, or powdered used to remove filth,
including dust, bacteria, stains, and offensive odors, from the body or inanimate things, such clothing,
in order to maintain health and attractiveness.

2.1. Background
Over the past few years, there has been a significant surge in the use of herbal remedies.
Approximately 80% of people worldwide, in both developed and developing countries, are thought to
use herbal plant extracts in their medications. It is acknowledged as one of the primary medical
therapies for a number of ailments, especially in developing countries. The remarkable rise in the
usage of herbal plants and their extracts led to the development of the branch of medicinal study
known as "Herbal Medicinal Products" [1].

In the form of herbal soap, which primarily includes plant parts including seeds, leaves, stems, fruit ,
and roots, it has antibacterial, anti-aging, antioxidant, and antiseptic effects. To treat illness or injury
or to improve health, use nuts and pulps.[2] Herbal soap is free of synthetic dyes, flavors, fluorides,
and other additives. when compared to what commercial soap contains.[3] Due to their strong
therapeutic value, herbs are the natural items most frequently used in the treatment of practically all
diseases and skin issues. value, affordability, accessibility, and compatibility.[4]

Various dried herbs, flowers, and steam are mixed into the soap base to create herbal soap. Due to
their high medicinal value, cost effectiveness, and accessibility, herbs are natural products that can be
used to treat practically all ailments and skin issues. As well as.[5,6]

Some herbs are effective at giving the product a natural color. Some herbs are excellent for relieving
stress. Other herbal additives may benefit the skin by minimizing acne or soothing irritability. As a
result, some plants have a wide range of vital minerals and vitamins that are highly helpful.[7]

2.2. Herbal soap advantages over synthetic soap

Natural elements found in herbal soap, such as plant extracts, essential oils, and herbs, providea
number of benefits over synthetic soaps.

1. Mild on the skin: Herbal soaps are often kinder and milder on the skin than synthetic soap, which
makes them appropriate for skin types that are more sensitive.

2. Natural ingredient: They frequently include skinnourishing and hydrating natural ingredients
including shea butter, coconut oil, olive oil, and aloe vera.

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3. Chemical-Free: The absence of harsh chemicals, artificial perfumes, and synthetic colors in herbal
soaps lowers the possibility of allergic responses and skin irritation.

4. Environmentally Friendly: Compared to synthetic soaps, the herbal ones are typically
biodegradable and environmentally friendly as they are made with natural ingredients.

5. Aromatherapy advantages: By combining essential oils with herbal soaps, aromatherapy

advantages including stress alleviation, mood enhancement, and relaxation can be experienced.

6. Natural antibacterial qualities: Certain herbal substances, like neem and tea tree oil, have
antibacterial qualities that assist to cleanse and shield the skin from infections.

2.3. Raw materials of polyhedral soap

Aloe vera

One of the first known medicinal herbs for healthy skin is aloe vera. Since the start of the first
century AD, this plant has been employed in herbal remedies [8]. In addition to being anti-
inflammatory, antiseptic and antimicrobial, anti-tumor, anti-skin protection, antidiabetic,
antibacterial, and antiviral, aloe vera (AV) gel has been used to treat wounds, burns, insect stings, and
skin irritation.

Aloe vera is a stemless or very short-stemmed plant growing to 60–100 centimetres (24–39 inches)
tall, spreading by offsets [9]. The leaves are thick and fleshy, green to grey-green, with some varieties
showing white flecks on their upper and lower stem surfaces [10]. Aloe vera can lead to skin
integrity, moisture retention, erythema reduction, and helps to prevent skin ulcers [11]. AV is very
good at maintaining moisture, tightening, and smoothing the skin [12]. Aloe vera gel is an active
ingredient in hundreds of skin lotions, sun blocks and cosmetics [13]. AV gel contains various
vitamins such as vitamin B12, vitamin A, other B-group vitamins, vitamin C, vitamin E, folic acid,
and 19 of the 20 amino acids needed by the human body [16]. The gel's use in cosmetics has been
boosted by claims that it has similar anti-aging effects to vitamin A derivatives [14]. When faced with
a minor burn, a fresh leaf can be cut and the gel of the inner leaf applied directly to the burn
immediately after the injury [15].

8
Aloe gel is 99% water with a pH of 4.5 and is a common ingredient in many non-prescription skin
salves. The gel contains an emollient polysaccharide, glucomannan. It is a good moisturizer [17].

Pharmacological Properties of Aloe vera gel

Wound Healing properties

Tannic acid with a certain kind of polysaccharide may be useful ingredients for wound healing. The
human body uses wound healing as a strategy to mend damaged tissues [18]. The active component
for wound healing is thought to be mannose-6-phosphate, which is present in the mucilaginous gel of
A. vera. Collagen thickness and fibroblast count were used to evaluate aloe vera's effect on wound
healing [19]. Compared to those treated with Aloe vera oil alone and gentamicin ointment, there were
more fibroblasts in the full-thickness defect treated with ozonated Aloe vera oil [20]. Ozonated
ointment is essential for coordinating the recruitment of lymphoid cells to the wound site and
successful tissue repair because it increases reactive oxygen species (ROS) at the wound site and
serves as a secondary messenger for different immunocytes and nonlymphoid cells involved in the
wound repair process.

Inflammation, herpes ulcers, diabetic foot ulcers, pressure sores, burns, frostbite, skin infections,
surgical wounds, and chronic wounds are just a few examples of the wound healing and ulcer
prevention benefits of aloe vera [21]. Aloe vera outperformed framycetin cream, petroleum jelly
gauze dressing, and 1% silver sulfadiazine ointment. Redness and irritation were avoided, the healing
period was shortened, and infection in the wound region was avoided [22].

Effects on skin exposure to UV and gamma radiation

Aloe Veras have a preventive effect against skin damage and aid in the healing of first to second
degree burns [23, 24]. The skin produces metallothionein, an antioxidant protein found in aloe vera
gel, which scavenges hydroxyl radicals and keeps the skin's glutathione peroxidase and superoxide
dismutase from being suppressed. It stops UV-induced suppression of delayed type hypersensitivity
by lowering the synthesis and release of immunosuppressive cytokines originating from skin
keratinocytes, such as interlukin-10 [25, 26].

9
Anti - inflammatory action

The body's natural reaction to an injury is inflammation, which causes pain, swelling, redness, and
heat and slows down the healing process [27]. Aloe vera gel's anti-inflammatory properties not only
ease pain and discomfort but also hasten the healing process. Acetylated mannan's actions in Aloe gel
are similar to mannose-6-phosphate's anti-inflammatory properties [28, 29]. Additionally, aloe vera
suppresses the cyclooxygenase pathway, which lowers prostaglandin synthesis and, consequently,
inflammation. Aloe vera extracts in water and chloroform were shown to have anti-edema properties.
Additionally, they were shown to lower the number of neutrophils moving into the peritoneal cavity.
For the treatment of H. Pylori infection, aloe vera also demonstrated strong anti-inflammatory
properties [30].

Anti-acne effect

The most prevalent skin condition that causes problems in adolescence and adulthood is acne. [31]
Because it contains vitamins, minerals, and hormones, aloe vera is highly effective at reducing
inflammation and acne on any part of the skin. Because of its hydrophilic nature, it works wonders
for oily skin [32]. Aloe vera emulgel, which contains olive, rose, and lemon oils that deeply enter the
skin and have a cleansing and smoothing impact, helped to lessen the flare-up of acne [33].
Additionally, it contains hydrating properties that prevent the skin from becoming too dry, which is
bad for skin that is prone to acne [34]. Olive oil's antibacterial and antioxidant qualities help combat
inflammatory cells and lessen inflammation [35]. Propylene glycol, another component of Aloe vera
emulgel, is utilized as a humectant solvent. Rose and lemon oils have a cleansing effect and remove
inflammatory germs from the pores. It helps the medicine penetrate deeply into the skin and doesn't
irritate it [36, 37].

Moisturizing and anti-aging effect

10
Currently, almost 95% of the dermatologically valuable goods are made using aloe vera. This is due
to the fact that it has unrealistic moisturizing qualities [13]. It increases the skin's capacity to retain
moisture and aids in the elimination of dead skin cells that produce collagen and elastin fibers,
increasing the skin's suppleness and decreasing wrinkles, therefore reversing the degenerative
changes in the skin. Through the action of amino acids and its cohesive effect on superficially peeling
epidermal cells, it softens the skin [38].

Uses / benefits of Aloe vera gel

It is used as base material for the production of creams, lotions, soaps, shampoos, facial cleansers and
other products. In the pharmaceutical industry, it is used for the manufacturing of topical products
such as ointments and gel preparations, as well as in the production of tablets and capsules dried aloe
gel has been successfully used to manufacture directly compressible matrix type tablets.

Qasil

Qasil Powder is derived from the leaves of the Gob tree, known as bukh Harvard in East Africa and
qasil in Somalia. This traditional ayurvedic herb has been cherished by Somali women for
generations for its remarkable effects on skin health. These leaves come with natural cleansing and
antibacterial properties to brighten the skin without using any chemicals. People around the globe use
this powder as a topical beauty treatment for skin and hair to help in cleansing, repairing and
rejuvenating. It can be used as a face cleanser, face mask and even hair mask.

Qasil Powder Benefits & Ingredients

There are various interesting benefits associated with organic qasil powder like cleanses the skin,
repairing skin, anti-ageing, glowing complexion hydrates skin and many more that would help you in
complete rejuvenation. Go through the following section to get a better understanding of the benefits
of Qasil Powder:

Repairing Skin:

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The rich antioxidant helps out in repairing and protecting skin from damage caused by free radicals.

Anti-Ageing:

It is another prime benefit of Qasil powder that helps out in reducing the appearance of fine lines and
wrinkles.

Hydrates Skin:

This powder is efficient in hydrating and nourishing the skin and hair.

Glowing Complexion:

The Qasil powder is quite helpful in evening out the skin tone while giving skin a natural and healthy
glow.

The ingredient used for making this powder is the leaves of Gob trees from Somalia and its
neighbouring countries.

2.4 Polyhedral soap formulation parameters and methods used so far (ingredients
and conditions)

Ingredients

Base Ingredients:

Oils and Butters, Olive oil, Coconut oil, Palm oil (sustainably sourced), Shea butter

Lye Solution

• Sodium hydroxide (NaOH) for solid soap

• Distilled water

Additives

• Aloe Vera

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• Fresh aloe vera gel or aloe vera extract

• Essential Oils

• For fragrance (e.g., lavender, tea tree, or peppermint essential oil)

Soap-making process

Safety Precautions:

- Wear gloves, goggles, and long sleeves.

- Work in a well-ventilated area.

Steps

1. Prepare the Lye Solution

- Weigh the distilled water and NaOH.

- Slowly add NaOH to the water (never the other way around) and stir until dissolved. Allow it to
cool.

2. Prepare the Oils

- Weigh and melt the solid oils/butters (coconut oil, palm oil, shea butter) in a heat-resistant
container.

- Add the liquid oils (olive oil) to the melted mixture.

3. Mix Lye and Oils

- When both the lye solution and oils are at a similar temperature (around 100°F/38°C), slowly add
the lye solution to the oils.

- Use a stick blender to mix until reaching "trace" (a thin pudding-like consistency).

4. Add Aloe Vera and Other Additives

- Gently fold in aloe vera gel, essential oils, and any other additives.

13
5. Mold the Soap

- Pour the soap mixture into molds.

- Cover and insulate to allow the soap to undergo saponification for 24-48 hours.

6. Cure the Soap

- Remove the soap from the molds and cut into bars.

- Cure the bars in a well-ventilated area for 4-6 weeks.

Evaluation of aloe vera soap

1. Physical Properties

- Appearance: Check for uniform color, absence of cracks, and smooth texture.

- Hardness: Test by pressing lightly; the soap should be firm but not brittle.

- Lather: Evaluate the amount and quality of lather produced.

2. Chemical Properties

- pH Testing: Use pH strips or a digital pH meter to ensure the soap has a skin-friendly pH (around
7-10).

-Moisture Content: Lower moisture content indicates better longevity. Measure using a moisture
analyzer.

3. Microbiological Testing

- Preservation: Ensure no microbial growth by testing for bacteria, yeast, and mold.

4. User Evaluation:

- Conduct a patch test for skin irritation.

- Collect feedback on skin feel, moisturization, and fragrance from a group of users.

5.Stability Testing:

14
 -Shelf Life: Assess the soap's stability over time by storing it under different conditions
(temperature, humidity) and monitoring changes in colour, fragrance, and efficacy.

Sample Aloe Vera Soap Formula (Cold Process)

- Olive oil: 40%, Coconut oil: 30%, Palm oil: 20%, Shea butter: 10%, Aloe vera gel: 15% (of total oil
weight), Sodium hydroxide:

Calculated based on oil weights using a lye calculator, Distilled water: 1.5 times the weight of
sodium hydroxide, Essential oils: 1-2% of total oil weight.[39]

Our polyherbal soap distinguishes itself through its unique combination of Aloe Vera and Qasil.
Unlike existing formulations that often rely on single herbal extracts, this synergistic blend leverages
Aloe Vera's moisturizing and soothing properties alongside Qasil's potent cleansing and antimicrobial
actions. Our cold-pressed production method ensures the preservation of these active compounds,
resulting in a superior product.

3. Materials and methods

3.1 Materials

Table 1: Raw Materials for Body Soap Production

Raw Material Description and Purpose

A by-product from palm oil refining, DPFA is used as a source of fatty acids
Distillate Palm Fatty
for soap production. It contributes to the cleansing properties and lather of
Acid (DPFA)
the soap.

Refined Bleached This oil is highly purified and processed to remove impurities, color, and
Deodorized Palm Oil odor. It provides a stable base for soap, contributing to its hardness and
(RBD) lathering ability.

15
Raw Material Description and Purpose

Extracted directly from palm fruits, crude palm oil contains various nutrients
Crude Palm Oil and fatty acids. It adds moisturizing properties to the soap and enhances its
overall quality.

Animal fat, often derived from beef or sheep, tallow is rich in stearic and
Tallow palmitic acids. It enhances the hardness and creaminess of the soap,
providing a stable lather.

Also known as caustic soda or lye, sodium hydroxide is essential for the
Sodium Hydroxide
saponification process. It reacts with the oils to form soap and glycerin.
(NaOH)
Proper handling is crucial, as it is a strong alkali that can cause burns.

Used to dissolve sodium hydroxide and hydrate the mixture. Water is

Water essential for the saponification reaction but should be measured carefully to
ensure the correct lye concentration.

Known for its soothing and moisturizing properties, aloe vera enhances the
Aloe Vera Gel skin benefits of the soap. It hydrates and calms the skin, making the soap
gentle for all skin types.

Derived from the leaves of the Qasil tree, this natural powder acts as a gentle
Qasil Powder exfoliant and cleanser. Qasil is rich in vitamins and minerals, offering
additional skin benefits and promoting a healthy complexion.

Table 2: Required Equipment for Body Soap Production

Equipment Purpose

For combining oils (such as palm oil) and the lye solution (sodium hydroxide).
Mixing Bowl
It should be made of a non-reactive material like stainless steel or glass.

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Equipment Purpose

Used to blend the soap mixture quickly and achieve "trace," which indicates
Stick Blender
that the oils and lye have emulsified properly.

For precise measurement of ingredients, ensuring accurate proportions for

Scale
saponification. A digital scale is recommended for accuracy.

To monitor the temperature of the oils and the lye solution, ensuring they are
Thermometer
within the appropriate range for saponification (usually around 100-110°F).

Used to shape the soap bars after pouring in the mixture. Silicone molds are
Soap Mold
popular for easy removal of the finished soap.

Includes gloves, goggles, and a lab coat to protect the skin and eyes during the
Safety Equipment
handling of sodium hydroxide and other materials.

Used for extracting aloe vera gel from the leaves. A high-speed blender can
Blender
help achieve a smooth consistency.

Strainer or Fine To separate the pure aloe vera gel from any fibrous material after blending. A
Mesh Filter fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth can be used for this purpose.

To test the pH of the finished soap, ensuring it is within a safe range for skin
pH Strips or Meter
contact.

3.2 Methodology

We will conduct the research project at Addis Ababa Science and Technology University’s laboratory
center, which emphasizes sustainable practices and the development of natural products. This project
will focus on the experimental investigation of polyherbal soap formulations, specifically utilizing
aloe vera and qasil, to evaluate their effects on soap quality.

Sample Size

17
We will utilize a sample size of 100 grams of oil (including DPFA, RBD, crude palm oil, and tallow)
for each batch of soap produced. This sample size is chosen to facilitate precise measurements and
maintain control over the experimental process, allowing for effective testing of soap quality while
minimizing waste.

Sampling Design

We will employ a simple random sampling design to select the raw materials for soap production.
This approach will ensure that the selected ingredients—oils, sodium hydroxide, aloe vera gel, and
qasil—represent a diverse range of local resources, thereby reducing bias in ingredient quality.

Data collection mechanism

We will collect data through the following mechanisms:

 Yield Measurement: We will record the final weight of the soap bars to assess yield
efficiency.
 Quality Testing: We will evaluate the soap for pH, texture, lathering ability, and
moisturizing properties.
 Observational Data: We will take notes regarding the ease of production and any issues
encountered during the process.

Experimental design

We will follow a batch processing approach in our experimental design. Multiple batches of
soap will be created, each varying in the amounts of aloe vera and qasil. This design will
allow for a comparative analysis of the effects of these additives on the final product.

Experimental work procedure

1. Preparation and Measurement of Raw Materials:

o We will initiate the theoretical mass balance using the molar chemical reaction
formula.

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o Molar Mass Calculations: We will calculate the necessary molar masses of the oils
and sodium hydroxide to determine the correct proportions for saponification.

 Molar mass of oil = 810 g/mol

 Mass of oil for one mole =810g
 Molar mass of NaOH = 40 g/mol
 Mass of NaOH for 3 moles =3*40=120g
 Starting with 100 g of oil, the amount of NaOH needed to neutralize it will be
calculated:
810 g (oil):120 g (NaOH)=100 g:x
solving for x gives:
x=100*120/810=14.81g NaOH is needed
Since 100% NaOH is rarely available, we will use 98% pure NaOH:
Amount of NaOH=14.81 g×100%/98%=15.12 g NaOH of 98% pure
NaOH is needed

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2. Preparing the Lye Solution:

We will prepare the lye solution by diluting sodium hydroxide (NaOH) in water using a 3:1
ratio of water to NaOH.

Calculation for the Water Needed:

15.12 g NaOH×3=45.36 g of water

o This process is exothermic, raising the temperature of the solution to around 80°C.
The lye solution will be allowed to cool before further use.

3. Extracting Aloe Vera Gel:

We will wash the aloe vera leaves and gently remove the inner gel. The gel will then be
blended until smooth and filtered to remove any unblended particles. After filtering, we will
set the gel aside to cool for use in our soap formulation.

4. Measuring Qasil Powder:

We will measure the qasil as it is purchased in powder form. The specific amount to be used
will be determined experimentally, based on the properties observed in the soap during the
production process.

5. Saponification Process:

We will slowly add the cooled lye solution to the palm oil in the mixing bowl while stirring
continuously. This step will be crucial for the saponification process to occur. Once we
achieve trace, we will add the prepared aloe vera gel and qasil powder to the mixture and
blend thoroughly to ensure even distribution.

6. Molding and Curing:

We will pour the final mixture into soap molds and allow it to cure for 24-48 hours. After the
soap has solidified, we will remove it from the molds and place it in a cool, dry area to cure

20
 for an additional 4-6 weeks. This extended curing period will complete the saponification
process and enhance the quality of the soap. By following this methodology, we aim to
produce a high-quality body soap enriched with the beneficial properties of aloe vera and
qasil, while ensuring safety and sustainability throughout the production process.

Quality Check Procedures for Body Soap

1. pH Testing

Purpose: We will ensure that the soap is safe and effective for skin use by verifying it falls within the
desired pH range.

Testing Procedure:

Preparation:

We will gather pH testing materials, including pH strips or a calibrated pH meter.

We will ensure the soap has cured for 4-6 weeks to allow for complete saponification.

Testing Method:

Using pH Strips:

We will wet a small piece of soap with distilled water.

We will dip the pH strip into the moisture for a few seconds.

We will compare the color change to the pH scale on the strip.

Using a pH Meter:

We will dissolve a small piece of soap in distilled water at a 1:10 ratio.

We will calibrate the pH meter according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

We will immerse the electrode in the solution and record the pH.

Desired pH Range: We will aim for a pH range of 7 to 8.5 to ensure mildness and compatibility with
the skin.

21
Documentation: We will record the pH readings and any observations about the soap’s overall
quality.

Adjustments (if necessary): If the pH is outside the desired range, we will consider modifying the
lye concentration or formulation in future batches.

2. Lathering Ability

Purpose: We will evaluate the soap’s cleansing effectiveness through its lathering properties.

Procedure:

We will take a small piece of soap and rub it between wet hands under running water.

We will observe and record the amount and quality of lather (e.g., creamy, bubbly).

Optionally, we will compare our results with a commercial soap for reference.

3. Texture and Consistency

Purpose: We will assess the soap's physical properties to ensure quality standards are met.

Procedure:

We will visually inspect the soap for cracks, uneven surfaces, or separation.

We will rub the soap between our fingers to confirm it feels smooth and solid.

4. Moisturizing Properties

Purpose: We will determine how well the soap hydrates the skin.

Procedure:

We will conduct a user test in which participants will apply the soap and note the sensation post-
rinsing (e.g., dry, tight, or moisturized).

5. Sensory Evaluation

Purpose: We will evaluate the overall user experience regarding smell, appearance, and usability.

22
Procedure:

Scent: We will assess the fragrance for pleasantness and intensity.

Visual Appeal: We will check for color consistency and transparency; a quality soap should be
uniform without cloudiness.

6. Longevity and Dissolution Rate

Purpose: We will measure the soap's durability during regular use.

Procedure:

We will use the soap under normal conditions and track how long it lasts and how much it diminishes
over several uses.

We will record any observations about performance over time.

Documentation

All findings from these quality checks will be systematically documented. This data will inform our
future batches and provide insights into product performance and user satisfaction. By thoroughly
evaluating these attributes, we aim to ensure a high-quality body soap that meets consumer
expectations and promotes skin health.

23
 4. Timeline

Table 3: Work plan and Time schedule

5. Financial Breakdown

Activities Month

Nov Dec Jan Feb mar may June

Literature review

Raw materials and equipment preparation

Conducting experiment and data generation

Analysis of experimental data

Preliminary economic analysis

Progress report
First Draft Document

Final report submission and presentation

Table 4: Financial breakdown

No. Item Unit price in birr Required quantity(for Sum of

per Kg several experimental test ) costs(birr)
Costs of chemicals and other materials
1. Sodium 154.7896 500gram 77.3948
Hydroxide
(NaOH)
2. Distillate Palm 218.4578 500gram 109.2289
Fatty Acid
(DPFA)
3. Refined 250 500gram 125
Bleached

24
 Deodorized
Palm Oil (RBD)
4. Crude Palm Oil 200 500gram 100
5. Tallow 150 500gram 75
6. Aloe Vera Gel 60 500gram 30
7. Qasil Powder 100 500gram 50
8. Mold 200 1 200

Total sum 766.6237

Stationary cost

Item Unit price Required quantity Sum of cost in birr

Proposal and progress 5 birr 250 pages 1250

report print

Final report print 5birr/page 150 750

Final report copies 750 3 copies 2250
Binding 50birr/copy 4 copies 200
A4 paper 750birr/pack 1 750
Flash drive 500 1 500
Total 5700

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30