Synthesis and Physicochemical Characterization of 2-Pyridine Aldoxime Methiodide (2-PAM) Incorporated Plant Based Solid Soap for an Organophosphate Decontaminant

Extensive utilization of pesticides in the agricultural sector is acknowledged for their potent insecticidal properties, effectively safeguarding crops and consequently enhancing both yield and quality. However, the organophosphate compounds (OPs) predominantly found in these pesticides are highly toxic and known for their rapid skin absorption, leading to acute poisoning and posing public health challenges. Early exposure requires immediate and efficient decontamination to prevent further skin absorption of OPs. The current cleaning agents, such as soap and bleach, are often associated with harsh chemicals that can be corrosive to the skin. Furthermore, these conventional options tend to merely wash away chemicals, potentially leaving effluent that still carries toxic compounds, causing pollution to the environment. Thus, there is a need for approaches that not only clean effectively but also degrade the harmful substances. This paper proposes a method to synthesize solid soap from palm oil incorporating 2-PAM as an active agent for effective decontamination. The resulting yellowish solid soaps exhibit pH values in the 9-10 range, lathering capabilities, and controlled moisture content (4.19 % for S1, 2.42 % for S2, 2.1 % for S3). FTIR analysis confirms successful 2-PAM integration in soaps S2 and S3, as evidenced by specific bands at 3016 cm-1 to 3015 cm-1, 1736 cm-1 to 1735 cm-1, 1368 cm-1 to 1364 cm-1, and 1217 cm-1 to 1215 cm-1. These characteristics set the stage for further research into the efficacy of these soaps in organophosphate decontamination and their role in environmental pollution control.