Unsaponifiable matter的意思

"Unsaponifiable matter" is a term used in the context of fats and oils, particularly in the process of saponification, which is a chemical reaction used to produce soap. The term refers to the portion of a fat or oil that does not undergo saponification and, therefore, does not contribute to the formation of soap.

Saponification is the reaction of a fat or oil with a strong base, typically sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide, in the presence of water. This reaction breaks down the fat into glycerol and a salt of fatty acids (soap). The glycerol component is water-soluble, and the fatty acid salts are what make soap effective as a cleansing agent.

Unsaponifiable matter typically includes various components that are not triglycerides, such as waxes, sterols (like cholesterol), tocopherols (vitamin E), and other hydrocarbons. These substances are not triglycerides and, therefore, do not react with the base to form soap.

In the production of soap, the unsaponifiable matter remains after the saponification process and can affect the properties of the soap. For example, it might contribute to the hardness or texture of the soap, or it might have cosmetic or health benefits when the soap is used. In some cases, the unsaponifiable matter is removed or reduced during the soap-making process to ensure a higher quality or more consistent product.