Saponification Value Calculator
Determine the amount of KOH required to saponify fats and oils using standard titration results.
Saponification value
134.64 mg KOH/g
Volume difference (blank − sample)
9.6 mL
How to Use This Calculator
Run blank and sample titrations
Record the titrant volume required for the blank (without sample) and the sample solution.
Enter normality and sample weight
Use a standardized KOH solution and weigh the fat sample accurately.
Calculate saponification value
The calculator returns mg KOH required per gram of sample, indicating average molecular weight of fatty acids.
Compare with reference data
Use the resulting value to assess identity, purity, or degradation of fats and oils.
Formula
SV = ( (B − S) × N × 56.1 ) / W
B is blank titration volume (mL), S is sample titration volume, N is KOH normality, and W is sample weight (g). 56.1 is mg of KOH per milliequivalent.
Example
If B = 25.00 mL, S = 15.40 mL, N = 0.5 N, W = 2.00 g, then SV = (9.60 × 0.5 × 56.1)/2.00 ≈ 134.6 mg KOH/g.
Full Description
Saponification value measures the average molecular weight of fatty acids in fats and oils by quantifying the KOH required to hydrolyze esters. Higher values indicate shorter-chain fatty acids.
Laboratories use this metric for quality control, verifying identity, and detecting adulteration of lipid materials. Accurate titration volumes and standardized reagents are essential for reliable results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why subtract sample from blank volume?
The blank accounts for the amount of KOH consumed by reagents and solvent. Subtracting isolates the volume reacting with the fat sample.
Can I use NaOH instead of KOH?
Yes, but replace 56.1 with the equivalent factor for NaOH (40.0). Report results as mg NaOH/g if you do so.
How precise should titrations be?
Use burettes with 0.01 mL readability. Duplicate titrations are recommended to ensure repeatability.
Does sample size matter?
Choose sample mass so the titrant volume falls within the burette’s optimal range (typically 5–25 mL).
What affects saponification value?
Free fatty acids, oxidation, or contamination can alter SV. Store samples properly to maintain accuracy.