Soap

Abstract

Natural oils and fats are the oldest raw materials used in the production of surfactant, i.e. soap. Synthetic detergents have largely displaced soap as a heavy-duty washing material, but soap - especially toilet and fine laundry soap - continues to enjoy consumer popularity and is preferred where soft water is available, whether from natural resources or by treatment. In many countries, soap is still the primary washing product for domestic and commercial laundering as well as personal hygiene.