How is glycerol obtained commercially ? State its two uses.

Explanation

(i) Glycerol is prepared in a large scale by the hydrolysis of oils or fats either by using alkali or by super heated steam.
(ii) During this process, soap is formed, along with the byproduct glycerol and this process is called saponification.
`underset(CH_(2)OCOR)underset(|)overset(CH_(2)OCOR)overset(|)(CHOCOR + 3NaOH) to underset("Glycerol")underset(CH_(2)OH)(CHOH + 3RCOONa darr)`
Uses of glycerol:
(i) Glycerol is used as a sweetening agent in confectionery adn beverages.
(ii) It is used in the manufacture of cosmetics and transparent soaps.
(iii) It is used in making printing inks and stamp pad ink and lubricant for watches and clocks.
(iv) It is used in the manufacture of explosive like dynamite and cordite by making it with chaina clay