why is lauric acid such a popular fatty acid for detergent and hand soaps?

Answer 1

lauric acid is the main acid found in coconut and palm kernel oils. These are known as they 'lathering' oils. The higher percentage of these oils used, will create a larger quantity and bigger bubbles. Lauric acid can be drying when found in very high percentages. Most soap makers will try to balance that with oils higher in linoleic acids (ie more conditioning oils)

Answer 2

It's cheap and non-toxic.